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Costly mistakes hurt Westwood in playoff loss to Calumet

By Journal Sports Staff

CALUMET — Despite having its chances, things came to a quick halt for the Westwood High School varsity football team in the opening round of the MHSAA playoffs.

The Patriots fell to Calumet 6-0 in a Division 6 Pre-District game played at the Copper Kings’ field on Friday night.

Westwood head coach Scott Syrjala said mistakes cost his team at the end of the night.

“We knew it was going to be a battle and Calumet is a great team,” he said. “We made silly mistakes, had nine penalties in the second half and you just can’t do that against good teams.

“I can’t fault our kids though. They played their hearts out and played hard. We got caught with several holding penalties but aren’t trying to do that obviously. You’re doing everything you can to stop a guy and it just happens.”

Syrjala also thanked his seniors for their time and dedication to the school and the program.

“I’m proud of our seniors,” he said. “They’re one of the best groups I’ve ever been around. They’re all going to go on to do wonderful things in life and I can’t thank them enough.”

Westwood drove the ball inside the Calumet 20 on three different occasions, all of which came up short. The first two times ended up being turnover on downs, while the third time saw the Patriots get up to the 13-yard line before a holding call pushed them back again.

The only touchdown of the game occurred as time expired in the third quarter with Calumet quarterback Brent Loukus finding receiver Matt Ojala on a 14-yard reception.

Westwood had 171 yards rushing with Beckman leading with 93. Senior running back Ashton Bergman added 71 yards. Beckman was 3-of-9 passing for 27 yards.

Information compiled by Journal Sports Writer Ryan Spitza. Email him at sports@miningjournal.net.

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