Newark Catholic graduate Bourne helps Ashland to playoff win

Newark Catholic graduate Kevin Bourne played a huge role in a memorable victory for Ashland on Saturday.

Bourne, a senior safety, had eight tackles in the Eagles’ 21-18 victory against two-time defending national champion Northwest Missouri State to advance in the NCAA Division II playoffs.

Bourne also had a forced fumble and a pass breakup as Ashland (11-1) held the Bearcats to 153 yards of offense. Licking Heights graduate Mike Hopewell, a sophomore defensive lineman, also had a tackle for the Eagles.

Ashland will play Harding, which upset unbeaten Indianapolis, 27-24, next week.