DECATUR – In a must-win game for Northwest to stay alive for a playoff berth in the north division, the Rangers and homestanding East Central Warriors battled to a 0-0 double overtime tie on Friday afternoon to seal both teams' fate.

Northwest moved to 5-6-3 overall and 2-3-2 in the north, still seeking its first division win since Sept. 13 at Itawamba. East Central moved to 4-9-3 overall and 1-4-2 in the division.

Both teams had their opportunities in regulation, but neither could find the back of the net in 110 minutes of action including a pair of scoreless overtime periods. Ranger keeper John Denton picked up eight saves to give him 97 on the year, while his counterpart Jacob Norman had 11 saves for the Warriors. Denton's fourth shutout also set a new school record, surpassing the previous mark of three.

Northwest out-shot East Central 18-12 (11-8 on goal), led by seven shots by Fakhry Khulfan.

The Rangers will try and close the season out on the right foot next Tuesday, welcoming Hinds to Senatobia for a 4 p.m. kickoff weather permitting. 

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