RACINE, Wis. — The Racine Case Eagles entered Friday night’s game riding the momentum of a 17-0 season-opening shutout. But against the disciplined Sussex Hamilton Chargers at Hammes Field, costly turnovers turned a winnable game into a 20-12 defeat.
Case fell to 1-1 overall as three interceptions stalled promising drives and shifted momentum decisively to Sussex Hamilton.
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The varsity’s tough night followed a challenging Thursday for Case’s developmental squads. The JV1 team lost 27-8, and JV2 was shut out 27-0 by Sussex Hamilton. The Chargers’ discipline and mistake-free play were evident at all levels, setting the tone for Friday’s varsity matchup.
Senior quarterback Jordan Matkus showed flashes of brilliance, including a 38-yard touchdown pass to Morell Jackson that brought the Eagles within one point early. Running backs Malachi Echols and Johnny Matthews combined for over 230 rushing yards, powering Case’s ground attack.
But turnovers proved costly. Matkus finished 5-of-14 passing for 72 yards with one touchdown and one interception. Backup quarterbacks Jason Jefferson and Michael Farr added two more interceptions, giving Case three in total.
Each interception ended drives deep in Sussex Hamilton territory, allowing the Chargers to seize control. Quarterbacks Jacob Osmanski and Timmy Tobolic combined for two touchdown passes and a rushing score, building a 20-6 lead entering the fourth quarter.
Though Echols scored on a late 3-yard touchdown run, Case couldn’t close the gap.
Sussex Hamilton committed just three penalties for 23 yards and turned the ball over once on a fumble. Case, by contrast, was flagged eight times for 60 yards and lost three drives to interceptions.
Despite losing the time of possession battle (47:56 to 25:55), Sussex Hamilton’s efficiency and ball control proved decisive.
Final Score: Sussex Hamilton Chargers 20, Case Eagles 12
Records: Sussex Hamilton (2-0), Case (1-1)
Key Stat: Case quarterbacks threw three interceptions; Sussex Hamilton committed just one turnover.
Coach Anton Graham shares a moment with his senior QB. Photo credit: Sawyer Donovan
Case now faces a tough challenge at Franklin (2-0) this Friday, September 5. Franklin’s physical defense and balanced offense have overwhelmed opponents early this season.
Kickoff is 7 p.m. at Franklin High School. Fans can purchase tickets online.
To bounce back, Case must limit turnovers and lean on its potent running game against one of the state’s toughest teams.
Full disclosure: Reporter Nick Payne is the father of Case players Nicholas and Jayden Payne.
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