Upset in Albany: Pierz Pioneers Stun huskies in Thrilling 21-14 Victory
ALBANY, MN – September 20, 2023 – In a stunning display of grit and determination, the Pierz Pioneers pulled off a major upset Friday night, defeating the heavily favored Albany Huskies 21-14. The victory, secured by a game-saving tackle by Pierz safety Link Toops at the 1-yard line as time expired, elevates the Pioneers to a perfect 4-0 on the season.
Pierz, ranked eighth in Class 3A, traveled to take on the second-ranked Huskies and delivered a performance that will be talked about for weeks. The game was a back-and-forth affair, with both teams showcasing notable offensive capabilities.
Leading the charge for Pierz was running back Brayden Faust,who racked up 64 rushing yards and a 5-yard touchdown in the first quarter. Faust also proved a threat thru the air, hauling in a impressive 50-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Liam Hennessy. Hennessy finished the night with 76 passing yards and 22 rushing yards of his own.
However, it was Paul Nieman who ultimately proved to be the game-winner. Nieman broke free for a crucial rushing touchdown with just 43 seconds remaining, giving Pierz a 21-14 lead.He finished the game with a team-high 90 rushing yards.
Albany fought valiantly, with Cohen Habben and Judah Allen each scoring rushing touchdowns. HabbenS 9-yard run put Albany on the board in the second quarter, while Allen’s 10-yard scamper tied the game.
Key Moments:
* 4:44 Q1: Pierz – Brayden Faust 5-yard run (Preston Saehr kick)
* 2:50 Q2: Albany – Cohen Habben 9-yard run (Hunter Boecker kick)
* 11:51 Q3: Pierz - Faust 50-yard pass from Liam Hennessy (Saehr kick)
* 4:22 Q3: Albany – Judah Allen 10-yard run (Boecker kick)
* 0:43 Q4: Pierz – Paul Nieman rushing touchdown
But it was Toops’ unbelievable stop on the final play that sealed the victory for Pierz, sending the Pioneers into a frenzy and solidifying their position as a force to be reckoned with in Class 3A football.
[Keywords: Pierz Pioneers, Albany Huskies, High School football, Minnesota Football, Upset, Link toops, Brayden Faust, Paul Nieman, Liam Hennessy, Game Recap, Sports News]
