OXFORD - The Oxford Blackhawks had a lot to celebrate on Friday night between Homecoming and senior night to go along with its first win since October 25, 2019. Oxford defeated Harpursville/Afton 38-30 in its first season back in 11-man football.

Coach Trenton Lyons and his team studied film on the Hornets and knew right away that they ran a similar system as previous opponent Walton, especially on the ground with their run game. Lyons also emphasized to his team all week that this game would be a "dog fight" to the finish, which it indeed was, and for the team to "man up and do their jobs."

"The team was invested already with homecoming and senior night with both the bleachers and hills full," Lyons said. "Our fanbase was electric and loud."

Oxford also celebrated its seniors. Congratulations to Dominick Battista, Owen Behr, Dylan Bowers, Tren Bush, Colten Button, Brayden Hamilton, Brent Hamilton, and Aiden Lamphere.

Oxford was able to score on their first drive quickly and from there, Lyons felt his team would come out with the win all the way through to the final play. Oxford had the ball with seven minutes left and the plan was to utilize the clock and not let Harpursville/Afton get the ball back. However, Oxford's Jacob Gallo ran in for about a four yard score instead of kneeling to end it.