Cranbrook falls to Redford Union 16-8 in season finale; focuses on MHSAA playoffs.

WR Alex Yolles scores a TD in the Cranes loss to Redford Union. (Photo Credit- K. Phillips)

The Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook Cranes were outpaced by the Redford Union Panthers in their regular season final 16-8.

The Panthers got their first win over the Cranes with a strong running game and a few breaks.

“They were well-prepared and gave a great effort,” said Cranes Head Coach Steve Graf.

Redford Union took advantage of good field position to score their first TD, after a big gain on a 49-yard running play early in the 2nd half. A 2-point conversion gave them an 8-0 lead.

Their second score came off a fumble recovery that began an 8-play drive to score just as the 4th quarter began. A second 2-point conversion made it 16-0.

The Cranes answer started with a 60-yard pass play junior QB Chase Zaidan to WR Max Bergen. Deep in Panther territory, Cranbrook would convert a 13-yard pass play from Zaiden to sophomore WR Alex Yolles for a TD.

A 2-point conversion left the score 16-8 with the 4th quarter coming to a close.

The Cranbrook onside kick was unfortunately fielded by the Panthers; they ran out the clock to preserve a victory.

“We certainly had our chances to win this game. We were not able to take advantage of our opportunities”, said Graf. “Hats off to Redford Union; we wish them well in the playoffs.”

Junior QB Chase Zaiden went 12-27 for 140 yards and 1 TD. Senior DE Bryce Hall led the Cranes defensively with 16 tackles and a fumble recovery.

Senior K Chase Paulus kept the Cranes alive averaging about 40 yards on his 7 punts during the game.

Cranbrook will make their seventh straight appearance in the MHSAA playoffs next week against Madison Heights Lamphere.