The Berne Union Rockets opened Mid-State League Cardinal Division play in dramatic fashion Friday night, defeating a talented Miller squad 20-18 in a back-and-forth battle.

The Falcons struck first, holding the Rockets on their opening drive before marching the length of the field to score the game’s first touchdown, taking a 6-0 lead. Berne Union answered later in the first quarter when sophomore quarterback Carson Kiger connected with Dillan Cornell for a 26-yard touchdown, evening the score at 6-6. Neither team would find the end zone in the second quarter, sending the game to halftime deadlocked.

Kiger gave the Rockets the lead in the third quarter with a 7-yard touchdown run, but Miller countered with a 1-yard plunge of their own. The Falcons’ two-point attempt came up short, keeping Berne Union ahead 13-12 going into the final quarter.

The Rockets added to their advantage early in the fourth when Dylan Finefrock powered through the defense for a tough 12-yard touchdown run. Miller fought back, scoring late to pull within two, but the Berne Union defense came up with the stop of the night, denying the Falcons’ two-point try to seal the 20-18 victory.

Kiger led the way offensively, completing 10 of 18 passes for 153 yards and a touchdown while also rushing 17 times for 73 yards and another score. Finefrock added 48 yards and a touchdown on 8 carries, while Mayson Walton chipped in 22 yards on 4 attempts.

Through the air, James Hocking had a standout performance with 5 receptions for 92 yards. Ashton O’Rourke hauled in 2 passes for 35 yards, while Cornell’s 2 receptions went for 35 yards and a touchdown.

With the win, the Rockets improve to 3-1 overall and 1-0 in league play. Berne Union will look to keep the momentum going next Friday when they travel to face the 2-2 Millersport Lakers.