Hoogland explodes for 5 TDs as Springville prevails in shootout with Central City

CENTRAL CITY - Every time Springville found themselves in trouble last evening, super-sophomore Henry Hoogland was there to answer the call.

Springville (2-5) defeated Central City (3-4), 47-30, in a shootout in Central City Friday.

Hoogland, who rushed for five touchdowns and nearly 250 yards, tallied his first TD on the opening drive, dashing in from nine yards out to give Springville an early lead.

'He (Hoogland) did not play against Midland two weeks ago, and last week he rushed for over 300 yards,” said Coach Joe Martin. 'It's nice to have him back and carrying the load for our offense.”

The Wildcats answered on the next possession as lead rusher, Wade McKinney, sprinted in for a 31-yard touchdown.

Hoogland responded with a clutch, 27-yard touchdown run on a fourth-and-6 to put Springville up, 12-6.

He then added his third score from five yards out on the Orioles' next possession.

Central City's explosive kick returner, Jacob McNelly, kept the game interesting as he gashed the Springville special teams unit by returning a 79-yard kickoff, breaking several tackles along the way. His score brought Central City within six.

However, the Wildcats couldn't contain Hoogland, as he again converted on fourth down for a score. The versatile sophomore racked up nearly 200 yards to go along with his 4 TDs in the first half alone, adding his fifth TD late in the fourth quarter.

'When we get those big plays everyone gets excited,” said Hoogland. 'It brings up the whole team.”