Turnover Prone Football Upset at Nassau

CONTACT: Adam Sopris, a.sopris@hvcc.edu; (518) 416-2137 or (518) 629-7898
FOR RELEASE: Immediate, Saturday, October 26, 2024

The Hudson Valley Community College (HVCC) football team was upset on the road, falling to Nassau Community College 21-7 on Saturday afternoon in Garden City, NY.

Despite holding the Nassau Lions to just 91 total yards, the Vikings struggled to find a consistent rhythm due to five turnovers — four lost fumbles and an interception, which was returned 55 yards for a touchdown by the Lions.

After a scoreless first quarter, Nassau broke the deadlock early in the second quarter with a one-yard touchdown run from Prince Perry, putting HVCC down 7-0. However, the Vikings responded as Cameron Harbaugh capped a 9-play, 63-yard drive with his own one-yard rushing touchdown just before halftime, tying the game at 7-7.

The third quarter shifted momentum in favor of Nassau as Perry once again found the end zone on a 21-yard run, giving the Lions a 14-7 lead. HVCC had chances to respond, but a critical turning point came when Nassau's Leonardo Lopez intercepted Harbaugh and returned it 55 yards for a defensive touchdown, extending Nassau's lead to 21-7.

Hudson Valley's defense played tenaciously, with Lathan Morse and Dominic Jones each recording seven tackles. However, Nassau's defense capitalized on HVCC's turnovers and key plays, ultimately securing the victory.

The nationally ranked Vikings dominated statistically, accumulating 216 yards of total offense compared to Nassau's 91. Despite this, HVCC was unable to overcome the five turnovers — the highest they've had in a game since a 7-6 road win over Erie on a rainy October 21.

Hudson Valley will look to regroup and refine their approach as they prepare for their next matchup. The Vikings travel to Hocking College on Saturday, November 9th, for an 11 a.m. kickoff in Nelsonville, Ohio.