Terrell Skinner runs for 164 yards and Lequerio Nesbitt 113 as the Pirates defeat Seminole 42-35 to improve to 5-1.
By JEFF BERLINICKE
Published October 16, 2004
SEMINOLE - Boca Ciega didn't get a lot of respect at the start of the season, but coach Gene Gordon said his team really didn't deserve any.
It does now, after a 42-35 win over host Seminole Friday that clinched a playoff berth for the Pirates (5-1). Boca Ciega struggled last season after a playoff berth in 2002, but coach Gene Gordon said his team has finally turned the corner.
"I don't blame anyone for not respecting us before this season," Gordon said. "We didn't deserve it. We've floundered for a lot of seasons, and we came off a great season in 2002 and didn't do anything last year. This team found a way to get it back."
The Boca Ciega defense wasn't at its best against Seminole, but a pounding running attack took care of things with a big night. Quarterback Terrell Skinner ran for 164 yards, and Lequerio Nesbitt added another 113. The Pirates completed just two passes on four attempts, but overcame an early deficit to pull out the win.
Seminole (2-4) fell into a 6-0 hole early when the Pirates scored on a touchdown run from Myron Dillard, but came back with consecutive touchdowns, including a 65-yard run from Lyndon Rowells on their first offensive play from scrimmage.
Boca Ciega cut the deficit to 14-13 after a 38-yard touchdown run by Skinner, and took the lead on its next possession on Nesbitt's 35-yard touchdown run.
Seminole trailed 42-21 entering the fourth quarter, but scored two quick touchdowns after Boca Ciega turnovers, and had the ball with just under two minutes remaining, but quarterback Devin Collins fumbled and the Pirates ran out the clock.
