Southlake, Texas -- In a Region II-4A bi-district contest, a spectacular fourth-quarter rally gave the Melissa Cardinals a nine-point win over the Midlothian Heritage Jaguars.

Melissa led 21-14 at halftime, however Heritage tied the game, 28-28, in the third quarter and then pulled ahead, 41-28, in the fourth quarter on a touchdown pass and a blocked punt returned for another TD.

With its season hanging in the balance, Melissa roared back to score the next 22 points on three touchdown passes to give the Cardinals an exciting 50-41 playoff win.

Melissa advances to face La Vega in the area round.

Melissa Cardinals running back Aston Mitchell-Johnson (12) scores a touchdown. (photos by Matt Pearce/Buzz Photos)

Melissa Cardinals quarterback Sam Fennegan (11) hands off to running back Aston Mitchell-Johnson (12).

Melissa Cardinals running back Aston Mitchell-Johnson (12) runs for a first down.

Melissa Cardinals quarterback Sam Fennegan (11) slides for a first down.

Melissa Cardinals linebacker Kale Brakebill (25) and defensive end Dylan Smith (99) sack Heritage quarterback Kaden Brown (2).

Melissa Cardinals quarterback\holder Walker Overman (1) picks up a blocked extra point attempt and runs it in for two points during the Melissa Cardinals vs Midlothian Heritage Jaguars high school football playoff game on November 19, 2021 at Southlake Dragons Stadium in Southlake, Texas.

photos by Matt Pearce www./BuzzPhotos.com