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Football: Crystal River 30, Hudson 27

 
Published Nov. 5, 2016

HUDSON —- In a game that featured six lead changes and two touchdowns in the final 50 seconds, Crystal River saved the best for last. Junior Xavier Francois-McCullough jumped over two defenders in the end zone for a 28-yard touchdown catch from Deandre Parker with 15.8 seconds left to lead Crystal River to a 30-27 road victory over Hudson on Friday. That touchdown overcame an 8-yard touchdown run by Hudson's Cyler Doran with 49.4 seconds remaining. Crystal River improved to 6-3, while Hudson fell to 5-4.

Key plays: Following Doran's touchdown, Parker returned the kickoff to the Pirates' 44-yard line with 39 seconds remaining. On the second play following the return, Hudson was called for a late hit on Parker, setting up his touchdown heave to the 6-foot-2 Francois-McCullough. Hudson got one more chance but Doran was picked off by Francois-McCullough to end the game.

Key stats: For Crystal River, Parker threw for 178 yards and a touchdown. He also ran for a score. Tyrek Scriven rushed for 36 yards and a touchdown. Jaden Williams rushed for 18 yards and a score. Francois-McCullough caught two passes for 85 yards and the game-winner. Caleb Bray caught two passes for 57 yards before being ejected. … For Hudson, Doran threw for 240 yards and a touchdown and rushed for two touchdowns and 74 yards. Remy Turner rushed for 64 yards and a touchdown. Dominick Rutigliano caught six passes for 122 yards. Justin Griffin caught five passes for 55 yards and a touchdown.

Final word: "Our kids kept believing and Xavier made the play but it wouldn't have happened if Deandre doesn't get that return. That was a crazy ending." — Crystal River coach Tony Lewis