By NATE BEIER | For the County Line
Riverdale’s offense quickly took the shine off Royall’s new-season high hopes, as the Chieftains jumped out to an early double-digit lead before locking up a 34-13 victory in Muscoda on Friday night.
The Chieftains were held in check over the course of the first quarter, but lit up the scoreboard after Trevor Troxel hit Brad Fox for a 43-yard touchdown pass early in the second quarter. Later the duocombined for a 26-yard run and catch as well as the home team built a 13–0 lead.
Royall, however, finished the half with a 1-yard scoring run by Sam Guilfoil. The drive, which started after a 32-yard kick return, spanned 40 yards in the course of two minutes.
Coach Ryan Olson said “We were able to run up the middle, getting four to five yards a pop. It was a good drive to go into the half with.”
Riverdale came out of the break ready to run. After throwing a pass for 35 yards, Troxel set up his own 9-year scoring run. Also, Brandon Roen scored twice in the fourth quarter to help the Chieftains take a 34–6 lead. Royall’s Connor Gates broke off a 39-yard rushing touchdown to tack on a few more points, but it was too late, as the hosting RHS held on to defeat the visiting RHS 34–13.
Royall, however, had ample chances throughout the game to keep pace. The Panthers fumbled twice inside the 10-yard line and had three drives stall out inside the 20-yard line.
Olson did point out that his team rushed for 181 yards, nearly matching the total yardage from all of 2014. Guilfoil led the team with 73 yards on 20 carries. Dorian Keenan had 58 yards; and Connor Gates, 56.
Matt Preuss led the team in tackles with 10. Also, Noah Friedl and David Stark each tallied seven.
“It was a step in the right direction. It was a learning experience for the coaches and players,” Olson said. “We did a lot of good things, like run the ball well. Now it’s doing the little things right to win games.”
Royall will host Lincoln (0–1) when football action resumes. TheHornets lost to Turtle Lake 50–0 last week, but are eager to notch another win against Royall after dealing them a 20–0 loss last year.