The Jasper Vikings’ defense came up with a pivotal defensive play late in the fourth quarter to clinch a 33-28 homecoming win over Demopolis on Friday night at Ki-Ro Gambrell Stadium.
Demopolis held the edge in total yardage, 457-376, but two costly turnovers gave the Vikings a decided advantage in the victory.
Spencer Rosenfeld amassed 291 total yards, completing 16 of 35 passes for 175 yards, rushing for 93 yards on 14 carries with two scores and caught a pass for 23 yards for a touchdown. Preston Reed caught five passes for 100 yards and Andrew Ross led the defense with eight tackles with two tackles for a loss.
Jasper took the opening drive of the game 58 yards on six plays, ending with a nine-yard run by Rosenfeld for the 7-0 lead.
Following a Demopolis score, the Vikings ended the first quarter with a 57-yard run scoring run by Rosenfeld to take command, 14-7.
With Demopolis tying the game at 14-14 in the second quarter, Jasper closed-out first half with a seven-play, 69-yard drive, with Reed connecting with Rosenfeld on a 23-yard strike for the 21-14 edge.
Demopolis tied the game 21-21 in the third quarter, but the Vikings got help from their special teams on a blocked punt that was picked up by Malakiah Gilmore and returned 17 yards for the scored, putting Jasper back on top, 27-21.
The Viking faced a one-point deficit at the end of the third quarter after a Demopolis score, 28-27.
Reed kicked two field goals in the fourth quarter, 38 and 37 yards, giving Jasper control, 33-28.
With Demopolis attempting a final score at two minutes left in regulation and one yard away from the endzone, the Vikings’ Collin Langley made the pivotal defensive play of the game when he recovered a fumble after a stop, allowing Jasper to run out the clock and earn the 33-28 win.
The Vikings return to region play on Friday, hosting the Minor Tigers.
