Manheim Central survives in two OTs

Bode Sipel reached out and pulled Immaculata running back Michael Tales down at the 1-yard line, halting Immaculata’s two-point attempt and securing a 44-43 victory for Manheim Central in double overtime Friday night at Rettew Stadium.

Before exiting the non-league game in the fourth quarter, Manheim’s Brycen Arnold rushed for 166 yards and four scores. He scored on runs of 7 and 4 yards in the first half and added runs of 18 and 61 yards in the second.

Martin Wantong had three touchdowns for Immaculata, which is located in Somerville, N.J.. Immaculata quarterback Mason Geis threw for 212 yards and delivered two big passing TDs of 40 and 37 yards.

In the first overtime both teams hit field goals.

In the second extra period Manheim’s Rocco Daugherty was stopped at the 2 but his teammates pushed him into the end zone.

Wantong scored for the Spartans before the two-point attempt failed, thanks to Sipel.

The Spartans erased an early deficit on two passing plays totaling 83 yards, culminating in a 40-yard touchdown catch by Cameron Chadwick.

Brian Thythavong returned an interception 47 yards, giving the Barons a 21-7 lead.

Besides Sipel’s tackle, the game turned when Immaculata blocked the Barons’ field goal try from 26 yards with 2:43 to play. Amer Mason scooped up the ball and ran it back to the Barons’ 3. Wantong scored one play later.