Vina loses close game at JCA

JACKSONVILLE — For about 45 minutes it looked as though Vina would pick up its first win of the season Friday night, but a late touchdown by the Jacksonville Christian Academy gave the Red Devils a heartbreaking 7-6 loss.

Ethan Pharr gave Vina a 6-0 lead with a minute to play in the first quarter, but the Red Devils were unable to add on the extra point.

Vina’s defense was able to hold the JCA offense attack in check, but numerous penalties against the Red Devil offense prevented Vina from extending its lead. At one point, Vina faced a third-and-54 situation.

With 2:41 remaining in the game, the Thunder was finally able to solve the Vina defense. A touchdown and extra point gave JCA all the advantage it would need.

Nick Schmittou completed 3-of-9 passes for 77 yards, carried the ball seven times for 50 yards and led the Red Devils with nine tackles.

Clay Pierce was the leading receiver for Vina, hauling in a pair of receptions for 60 yards while Tyler Hammock had one catch for 12 yards.

Pharr led the Red Devils with 64 rushing yards on 11 carries. Cody Renfrow added 40 yards on five carries while Andrew Hester recorded nine carries for 29 yards.

Hester also had seven tackles while Renfrow recorded four tackles.