MILLINOCKET, Maine — That first win of the season may continue to elude the Houlton football squad, but the Shires have shown steady improvement in each of its first four games.
On Saturday evening, Houlton journeyed to Millinocket to take on Stearns, and for the second straight week, a late-game rally fell just short. Houlton fell to the Minutemen 56-52.
Houlton (0-4) actually compiled more yardage than the Minutemen, with 373 total yards of offense for the Shires, compared to 310 for Stearns. The Shires also ran nearly double the amount of plays — 77 to 44 — but it was not enough.
Passing yards were hard to come by for both squads, who opted to keep the ball on the ground for much of the game.
“The weather wasn’t a factor Saturday night in Millinocket,” coach Jon Solomon said. “Our game plan changed some going into the game because of some injuries to some of our starters. A couple freshmen (Wyatt Sanford and Daniel Clark) saw their first varsity action and did a good job filling in for our injured players. We made it very interesting in the end.”
Houlton quarterback Isaiah Ervin completed seven of 20 passes for 76 yards and two touchdowns, with one interception. Stearns’ quarterback completed just two of seven passes for 43 yards and a touchdown.
Ervin ran the ball 27 times compiling 185 yards (his highest of the season) and a rushing touchdown. He also had an 82-yard kick return for a score.
Shire AJ Lewis had 15 carries for 63 yards and two scores, while Daniel Clark added nine rushes for 33 yards and a score. Bronson Hanning chipped in six carries for 17 yards.
Wyatt Sanford hauled in the lone touchdown pass through air for Houlton – an eight yard pass midway through the second quarter.
Houlton trailed 32-20 at the halftime break, and cut the lead to just four points — 32-28 — midway through the third quarter.
“The players are competing,” coach Solomon said. “Over the last few weeks the players have gained confidence and feel they can play with anyone in the league. We will continue to work and try to get better each day for the rest of the season.”
Houlton 6 14 8 24 – 52
Stearns 16 16 16 8 – 56
