Millington hangs on in wild fourth quarter to defeat North Muskegon

It has finally happened for Millington - they are headed to Ford Field.

The Cardinals have enjoyed one of the most successful programs in the state over the last 35 years, having reached the playoffs every season since 1988.

However, Millington had not been able to get past the semifinal game. That changed Saturday, when Millington held on to defeat North Muskegon 34-27 in the state semifinals.

Millington struck first midway through the opening quarter with a one-yard rushing touchdown to take a 7-0 lead.

North Muskegon immediately responded with a 70-yard passing touchdown to even the game at 7-7 with four minutes left in the first quarter.

Millington took a 14-7 lead within the first minute of the second quarter with a five-yard touchdown scamper.

North Muskegon capped a long drive with a one-yard plunge to again tie the game, this time at 14-14 with halftime closing in.

But Millington still had some sparks left in the opening half, racing home for a 30-yard touchdown run with just 11 seconds left on the clock.

With under three minutes left in the third quarter, the Cardinals scored again, missing the two-point conversion - to take a 26-14 lead.

Millington then forced a safety, taking a 28-14 lead into the fourth quarter. Three minutes later, the Cardinals scored a 30-yard passing touchdown to take what appeared to be a commanding 35-14 lead with just nine minutes left on the clock.

North Muskegon then fumbled the ensuing kickoff, which seemed to seal their fate. But they weren’t done just yet.

North Muskegon held Millington from scoring and then punched in a five-yard touchdown run to trail 35-21 with just over five minutes left in the game.

Millington then fumbled at midfield, resulting in another North Muskegon touchdown, who had now pulled to within seven points at 35-28 with just four minutes left to play.

Millington recovered the ensuing onside kick and ran out the clock to claim a spot in next week’s D7 state finals.