CONTACT: Adam Sopris, a.sopris@hvcc.edu, 518-629-7898 or 518-416-2137
FOR RELEASE: Immediate, Saturday, September 22, 2018

The Hudson Valley Community College football team (0-4) was defeated 24-22 at home against East Coast Prep on Saturday afternoon. 

After falling behind 6-0 after the opening quarter, the Vikings offense found its stride and gained momentum in the next two quarters of the game. Hudson Valley scored twice in the second quarter as Halijah "Pooh Bear" McClean (Fairmont, NC/Fairmont) broke through the defense for a 53-yard touchdown run, capping a 4-play, 63-yard scoring drive in 42 seconds.

McClean finished off the Vikings second scoring drive in the quarter with a 12-yard run through East Coast Prep's defense. Hudson Valley took the 13-6 lead into halftime. 

Coming out of the half, the Vikings continued to hit their marks as McClean scored a rushing touchdown for the third time of the game. He capped an 8-play, 55-yard drive with a 1-yard goal line score, extending the Vikings lead to 20-6. 

East Coast Prep took over in the third quarter, scoring three straight touchdowns in the final quarters of the game. East Coast took the lead on a 67-yard touchdown pass from Bryce Bearss to Mark Walker.  

Hudson Valley's defense recorded a team safety and took over possession with 13 seconds remaining in the game. The Vikings were forced to start their final drive from their own 28-yard line and were unable to convert as time ran out. 

Hudson Valley returns to action next Saturday, September 29 for Military Appreciation Day as the Vikings welcome Army Prep to Troy, NY. Kickoff is scheduled for 4 p.m.