Warriors fall in season opener
The Cenral football team gathered in a pre-game huddle around new head coach Joe Koehn. (Photos by Bev Hamann)
Central quarterback Evan Schroeder rolled out of the pocket, looking downfield, during the game against Kee on Aug. 28.
By Willis Patenaude, Times-Register
It was a rough start to the Central Warriors’ football season Friday night, as the team lost its home opener against the Kee Hawks, 54-14.
From the start, the Warriors had trouble moving and protecting the ball.
Quarterback Evan Schroeder completed four of 13 passes for 11 yards, while throwing four interceptions, one of which was a pick-six. The rushing attack totaled 38 attempts for 89 yards, an average of 2.8 yards per carry.
Though Schroeder scored two rushing touchdowns, one each in the third and fourth quarters, the inconsistent rushing attack led to some long third downs.
On special teams, a Central punt was blocked, and other short punts put the Hawks in good field position throughout the game. This allowed Kee to establish an early lead and pull away, out-gaining the Warriors by 150 total yards.
On the defensive side of the ball, the Warriors allowed 178 rushing yards and 90 passing yards. A highlight included the recovery of three fumbles and one interception.
Schroeder stood out, recording seven tackles—one for a loss—and one fumble recovery.
The Warriors look to put the first game jitters behind them this Friday, Sept. 4, as they welcome the Springville Orioles—fresh off a 60-14 win over the Central City Wildcats.
