Negaunee, MI – August 24, 2023 – Despite holding a 16-8 lead at halftime, the Ishpeming Hematites ultimately dropped their first game of the season 16-8 to Negaunee at Miners Stadium on Thursday night. Negaunee scored less than four minutes into the contest to go up 8-0, but the Hematites defense solidified to hold the Miners at 8 points for the rest of the half. Ishpeming benefited from a few Negaunee mistakes, scoring twice and converting on both two point conversions to lead 16-8 at halftime. Negaunee’s Weston Yesney ran back the third quarter kickoff for a touchdown, and despite not converting the two point attempt, the momentum had shifted decisively toward the home team. While the Hematites still led 16-14 heading into the final quarter, the Miners finally found their offensive groove, scoring 18 final-frame points for a 32-16 victory.
The Hematites will next take the field on Thursday, August 31, when they host the Manistique emeralds. Join Tyler Young and Bob Nadeau for all the action on 98.3 WRUP and online at wrup.com.