BCAA Game of the Week 10: Hallandale 20 - Glades Central 17

No BCAA team had ever beaten Glades Central. In fact, last year, Hallandale High lost to Glades Central twice.

But all that changed on November 1st, 2002.

In a game that would determine Hallandale High's post-season fate, the Chargers knew they would need to play a near perfect game. Hallandale Coach Bob Woods realized the key to victory was keeping the ball out of the hands of Glades Central senior quarterback, Leon Camel. The game plan was simple, control the offensive line, run the ball and control the clock. Leon Pennington, the workhorse of the Charger offense, carried out the plan by running for 168 yards on 38 carries.

The state-ranked Glades Central team tied the game in the fourth quarter at 14 a piece. In the waning minutes of the fourth quarter, the Hallandale offense, behind the running of Pennington, moved the ball from their 27 to the Glades Central one-yard line. On fourth down, the Glades Centeral defenders turned Pennignton back form the goal line, forcing overtime.

In overtime, Glades Central kicked a field goal to lead 17-14. Now it was the Hallandale offense's turn. On first down, Pennington ran the ball up the middle for three yards. On second down the Chargers tried a sweep around the right side for no gain. On third down the Glades Central players and the fans expected another Pennington run. However, Charger quarterback Jermaine Walters faked the handoff to Pennington and scrambled seven yards for a touchdown to win the game and clinch a playoff spot in the state tournament series.

On paper, the heroes of the game were Pennngton and Walters. However, credit must be given to the offensive and defensive fronts for Hallandale. Controlling the line of scrimmage was the key factor in the Chargers win.

Hail to the Chargers! Hail to the lineman!