ELIDA, OH (WLIO) — Van Wert opened Western Buckeye League play with a 19-14 victory over Elida on Friday night, holding off a late push from the Bulldogs to secure the win.

The Cougars’ sophomore quarterback Zach Crummey powered in for a score in the first half, but a missed extra point left Van Wert trailing 14-13.

In the fourth quarter, Crummey connected with Micah Cowan in the corner of the end zone to give the Cougars a 19-14 lead after a failed two-point conversion attempt.

Elida’s defense had its moments, highlighted by Parker Crim’s sack and celebratory gesture toward the Van Wert sideline, but the Bulldogs’ offense couldn’t capitalize late. Jonan Snyder’s pass over the middle was tipped, and Cowan came up with the interception to seal the game.

Van Wert improves its series edge over Elida to 14-8 since 2004.

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