You Make the Call

A ominous photo taken by GazetteMail.com/sports and circulating on social media this week captures a fateful moment in state football playoffs round one.

After jumping out to a 21-7 lead in the first half, Sissonville senior quarterback, Chance Brown, suffered a disabling injury to his ankle, severely hampering his offensive output.  Weir mounted a strong comeback to take the lead in the fourth quarter 29-21.   Sissonville then scored at the end of regulation to make it 29-27.   The Indians subsequently went for the two point conversion to tie the game and go to overtime.

On that conversion pass attempt the controversial photo was snapped.  The pass was broken up by the Weir defender and no foul was ruled.

Arguably, the single play affected at least three schools in the playoffs.

First, it allowed Weir to advance to the quarterfinals to play at Fairmont Senior.

Second, it eliminated any chance of Sissonville tying the game and possibly winning in overtime, whereby the Indians would have hosted a second playoff game.

Home playoff games contribute significant money into school athletic programs via extra ad sales, souvenirs, concessions, parking and more.

Third, the crucial play allowed Fairmont Senior to gain a unplanned home playoff game whereby it saves significantly on travel expenses and gains revenues on hosting a game.

Obviously, there are many critical moments and close calls in each playoff game.  We found this one of high interest because of the  photo that captured it.

Photo by @GazettMail and circulated on social media by @SHSIndians fans wanting to know why no interference call was made.

More photos from Gazette Mail Preps and game reports at http://www.wvgazettemail.com/Sports/PrepSports