Takeaways, running attack guide Athens to big win
Hornets beat Waxahachie Life, 48-20
(Coach Zac Harrell talks to the team after the game.)
By Michael V. Hannigan
WAXAHACHIE -- The Athens Hornets rolled over Waxahachie Life Friday night, 48-20.
The win improved the Hornets' record to 2-0 on the year, while the Mustangs fell to 0-2.
The Hornets took advantage of three takeaways by the defense in the first half to build a 14-7 lead before blowing the game open in the second half.
All three turnovers came at key moments.
The scoring got underway with a 43-yard interception return for a touchdown by freshman Gage Friedrich in the first quarter.
The Mustangs tried to respond on the ensuing possession, driving deep into Athens territory. But Hornet middle linebacker Connor Clay recovered a Waxahachie Life fumble to end that threat.
The Hornet offense took advantage of the opportunity and scored on a 34-yard pass from Ty Arroyo to Jarred Duff to build a 14-0 lead that Athens never relinquished.
Late in the half, with Waxahachie Life threatening in the red zone, Zay Hull tipped a Mustang pass that was intercepted by Cedric Lowe.
Waxahachie never got another chance to make the game close because the Athens' rushing attack caught fire in the second half.
The Hornets rushed for nearly 300 yards in the third and fourth quarters and scored on five consecutive second half drives.
Nathan Sims (2, 65) and Jecorey Roberts (1, 5) had two touchdowns apiece, and Daniel Stanley had a 63-yard TD run.
Sims unofficially finished the night with 156 yards to lead all rushers.
Not everything went on the ground, however. Quarterback Ty Arroyo threw for 141 yards and the touchdown to Duff.
Duff led all receivers with five receptions for 99 yards.
Next Friday, Athens is scheduled to be on the road at Fairfield. Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m.
===
Our Sponsors
This site is free thanks to Athens Screen Printing, HP Overhead Door Company, Speedy Tech Repair, Tinsley Law & Title, and Gibson Pharmacy. Please say thank you by visiting their Facebook page.
