NEWBERG, Ore. — The Newberg Tigers (5-2, 3-0 Pacific League) escaped with a 48-42 victory over the Liberty Falcons (4-3, 1-2 Pacific League) in triple overtime Friday night at home.
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The game was marked by penalties, turnovers, and big plays on both sides. The first half was defined by scoring, the second by yellow flags, and overtime by mistakes before senior quarterback Parker Sellner sealed the win with a one-yard quarterback sneak.
Newberg got off to a strong start in the first quarter, as senior running back Chace Macken scored twice to give the Tigers a 21-7 lead.
Liberty responded with a pair of rushing touchdowns from 205-pound fullback Ethan Hopper to tie the game at 21. Macken answered with his third rushing touchdown of the day.
The game then shifted to highlight each team’s strengths. For Newberg, it was getting star wide receiver Ethan Hein the ball, whether through passes or coach Jeremy Johnson’s favored jet sweeps. Hein scored the next two Newberg touchdowns.
Liberty leaned on a traditional buck sweep with elusive running back Mekhi Perry. His speed caused problems for Newberg, and he scored on both sides of halftime to give the Falcons their first lead of the day, 35-28.
The final six minutes and the overtime periods were chaotic. There were eight penalties—including two that negated touchdowns—two forced fumbles, two missed field goals (either could have given Liberty the win), one blocked field goal, and two fourth-down stops.
Ultimately, it was the most thrilling Newberg game of the season. Hein’s explosive plays, Johnson’s ability to get the ball to his top playmaker, Liberty’s offensive misdirection, and the officials’ watchful eyes combined for an exciting night at Loran Douglas Field.
Next, the Tigers will host Glencoe, another contender for second place in the Pacific League.
