Comets Top Rothsay with Strong Win

The Comets capped off a gritty 30-16 victory over the Rothsay Tigers with a show of determination and resilience as they gear up for the postseason. With a dominant performance by quarterback Ethan Swedberg, who racked up four touchdowns, Hillcrest was able to set the tone early and close out strong despite some late-game resistance from Rothsay.

In the first quarter, Swedberg found the end zone twice on 3-yard runs, helping Hillcrest jump to an 8-0 lead. The second quarter saw Rothsay tie the game at 8-8 after a touchdown and two-point conversion by Preston Curtis, but Hillcrest quickly responded with another Swedberg rushing touchdown to take a 14-8 lead into halftime.

The Comets came out of the locker room fired up in the third quarter, where they exploded for 16 points. Swedberg’s 9-yard touchdown run extended the lead, followed by a conversion. Thor Ewan added another touchdown with a 15-yard rush, and Swedberg capped off the third quarter with his fourth and final score of the night on a 3-yard rush, making it 30-8. Although Rothsay fought back in the fourth quarter with a late passing touchdown from Curtis to Karson Jensen, Hillcrest’s defense held firm, securing the win.

The game’s stats reflect Hillcrest’s balanced offensive attack. They tallied 204 rushing yards on 46 attempts, with Ewan leading the way with 129 yards. Swedberg added 58 yards and his four touchdowns, while Drew Fischer contributed significantly in the passing game with six receptions for 83 yards.

Defensively, Hillcrest showcased strength in key moments. Griffin Haus and Trey Swedenberg led the team with 6 tackles each, while Xander Knutson and Haus came up with crucial interceptions that thwarted Rothsay’s momentum.

With this win, the Comets position themselves for a strong postseason run. After proving they can handle pressure and adapt to tough competition, the Comets are ready to bring that same intensity to the playoffs as they look to a playoff game next week.