Hamilton Southeastern was dealt a tough loss on Friday, as North Central stunned the Royals with a fourth-quarter comeback to win 17-16.
Southeastern started the game with a big defensive play from Michael Cross, who took an interception return 48 yards into the end zone for a touchdown with 10:25 left in the first quarter. The Royals then led 6-0 for most of the half until the Panthers got their own pick six with 3:58 left in the second quarter.
The Royals got the lead back right before halftime, as Nijawon Wilson took the ball in from two yards out with 45 seconds left in the half. The subsequent extra point kick put Southeastern up 13-7 at halftime.
Alex Geroulis made a 40-yard field goal with 6:53 remaining in the fourth period to put the Royals up 16-7. But North Central came back with a touchdown, then won on a field goal as time expired.
Stats from the game were not available at press time and will run in a later addition.
Southeastern is 1-1 and hosts Avon next Friday to open Hoosier Crossroads Conference play.
