PNG spoils Nederland’s perfect season, 34-21

PORT NECHES – It was another classic Mid-County Madness showdown, with Port Neches-Groves topping Nederland 34-21 in front of a packed house at The Reservation.

The Bulldogs were attempting to complete their first perfect regular season since 1959, but Texas-commit Roschon Johnson had other ideas. The future Longhorn rushed for 258 yards and five touchdowns to give the Indians their 50th win in the series that dates back to 1925.

Despite the setback, it was actually Big Ned striking first. Quarterback Blaysin Fernandez scored from two yards out in the second quarter for the first points of the game.

Five minutes later Johnson would score the equalizer on a fourth and one from the eight yard line. Those would be the only points of the first half.

After the break the Indians defense would to the damage, coming up with two interceptions, while the special team unit came up with a fumble recovery of their own.

PNG took their first lead with 7:43 left in the third. For the second time, Johnson turned a fourth and one into an seven yard score. From there the Indians would take control.

After three quarters Brandon Faircloth’s led Nederland, 27-7 and cruised to a 34-21 win.

With the win the Indians (7-3) earn district 12-5A-DII’s top playoff seed and will host either Houston Northside or Houston Sterling next Friday night. Meanwhile the Bulldogs (9-1) will try to bounce back next week when they host Fort Bend Willowridge in the Bi-District playoffs.