Decked out in U.S.A.-themed gear and traditional homecoming mums, Anderson students and fans were fired up for the homecoming game against Hays at House Park. With Anderson boasting a 5-2 record, the crowd was confident they would win.
Anderson made an immediate impact in the first quarter, forcing Hays to punt, and Quarterback Max Gerlich quickly connected with Zayden Sharp for a touchdown, putting Anderson ahead 7-0. Hays responded swiftly, scoring a touchdown right off the kickoff to tie the game. Undeterred, Anderson struck back with another Gerlich-to-Sharp touchdown, ending the first quarter 14-7.
In the second quarter, Anderson’s defense forced a fumble, which set up another touchdown pass from Gerlich, this time to Tristan Waidelich, extending Anderson’s lead to 21-7. Hays, however, was determined; after a timeout, they scored to close the gap to 21-14. Following a fumble recovery, Hays scored again but missed a two-point conversion, leaving the score at a tight 21-20. The crowd was on the edge of their seats. Just before halftime, Anderson’s defense held strong, preventing Hays from capitalizing on an interception and keeping the lead by a single point.
After halftime, Anderson’s defense forced a punt, putting the offense back in action. With about eight minutes left in the third quarter, they added another touchdown, bringing the score to 28-20 and keeping the momentum firmly in Anderson’s favor. The crowd was roaring with excitement; Anderson was back in the lead.
Early in the fourth quarter, Hays scored a touchdown but missed the two-point conversion again, making the score 35-26 with about ten minutes remaining. Anderson quickly answered on offense when Gerlich connected with Fulmer for another touchdown, extending the lead to 42-26. From there, Anderson’s offense and defense dominated, with the Trojan defense intercepting Hays and shutting down any comeback attempts. Anderson secured a decisive 42-26 victory over Hays.
Offensive line coach, Peter Zoumboukos, mostly referred to as Coach Z, remarked that while the game “could have been cleaner,” he was incredibly proud of the team and their performance that night. This victory marked the first time in thirteen years that Anderson defeated Hays, and Coach Z believes it secured the Trojans a playoff spot. He highlighted standout performances from Max Gerlich and Ed Small, who he felt truly stepped up in this game.
Anderson High School celebrated a milestone victory over Hays on Friday night, hopefully indicating better things to come for the Trojan football program. From start to finish, Anderson’s offense was explosive, with key plays from quarterback Max Gerlich and standout receivers. The defense held strong, securing critical stops and an interception late in the game. Despite a few challenges, Anderson maintained control, impressing both fans and coaches, who believe this win has paved the way for a playoff spot.