BERRIEN SPRINGS — A first quarter touchdown was good enough for Berrien Springs to earn a spot in the MHSAA playoffs and its first win over Dowagiac in school history.

Malik McIntyre scored on a 3-yard run and Brant Rago added the extra point with 9:36 to play in the opening quarter as the Shamrocks defeated the Chieftains 7-0 in a Wolverine West Division contest Friday night.

The win gave Berrien Springs a 6-3 record and its first spot in the post season since 2011.

Dowagiac had its chances against the Shamrocks, but was unable to get the ball in the end zone.

The Chieftains (3-6, 1-4 West) held a 200-181 advantage in total yardage and ran 14 more plays than the Shamrocks.

Dowagiac also forced the game’s only turnover, a fumble, which was recovered by Caleb Sands at the Berrien Springs 23-yard line.

The Chieftains were unable to move the football and actually lost five yards before turning the ball over on downs — ending Dowagiac’s best scoring opportunity.

Bryce Dodd was 7-of-15 for 8- yards, while Jared Hatch completed 1-of-2 halfback passes for an additional 38 yards.

For the second straight week, Dowagiac was unable to generate much on the ground. Chase Camp led the Chieftains with just 35 yards on nine carries.

Dowagiac’s top two rushers — Hatch and Rolly Lucio — combined for 10 yards on nine carries.

 

Berrien Springs         7          0          0          0 – 7

Dowagiac                     0          0          0          0 – 0

B – Malik McIntyre 3 run (Brant Rago kick) 9:36

 

Varsity records

Dowagiac 3-6, 1-4 West; Berrien Springs 6-3, 4-1, West