North Shore prevails in thrilling playoff showdown over Clear Springs

Photo by Darla S Tamulitis, La Vita Loca Photography, Copyright 2023, All Rights Reserved

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2023 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (November 17, 2023) In a Texas high school football playoff showdown that kept fans on the edge of their seats, the number one ranked North Shore Mustangs secured a hard-fought 49-21 victory over Clear Springs in the area round. The Mustangs faced a resilient Clear Springs squad (7-5) that refused to back down, making it an exhilarating match until North Shore's late-game surge. The Mustangs, sitting proudly at No. 9 in the country, found themselves in a tight battle with Clear Springs for the majority of the game. The first half ended with a 14-14 tie, showcasing the determination of both teams. Clear Springs, seemingly undeterred by the formidable opponent, matched North Shore step for step. As the clock ticked down late into the third quarter, the game remained deadlocked at 21-21. It was at this critical juncture that North Shore decided to showcase why they are considered one of the top teams in the nation. In a spectacular display of skill and determination, the Mustangs unleashed a barrage of 28 unanswered points, leaving Clear Springs in their wake. Leading the charge for the Mustangs was the dynamic D'Andre Hardeman, who showcased his prowess with three crucial rushing touchdowns. Hardeman's 90-yard sprint for a touchdown early in the fourth quarter solidified North Shore's lead, making it a two-score game and sending a surge of energy through the Mustangs' faithful supporters. However, the game took an unexpected turn when North Shore's junior quarterback, Kaleb Bailey, left the field due to an apparent injury in the third quarter. With the score tied and tension in the air, sophomore Kaleb Maryland stepped up to the plate. Maryland not only scored the go-ahead touchdown with a two-yard keeper but also took charge of the offense, guiding the Mustangs to victory in Bailey's absence. Looking ahead, North Shore's journey through the Texas high school football playoffs continues as they gear up to face Cy-Fair in the regional semifinal round of the UIL 6A D1 playoffs. The Bobcats, are coming of a 28-21 triumph over Katy in the area round. The Mustangs and Bobcats will faceoff on Friday, November 24 with a 2 p.m. CST kickoff at NRG Stadium.