Football breaks through scoring drought
Trey Bateman catches the ball for the Badgers at home against Connell High School on Sept. 15.
(Photo By: EMILY BONSANT)
SPOKANE VALLEY, Wash. — Badger football (1-4) broke through its scoring drought, earning two touchdowns, a field goal and a two-point conversion Friday, Sept. 22, against the East Valley Knights (1-4) from the 2A/3A/4A Greater Spokane League.
Unfortunately, it wasn’t enough for a Badger victory.
The Knights attacked early, rushing past the Badger defense scoring a touchdown on the first play of the game.
On the first Badger possession, the Knights gained possession after a fumble at the Badger 15-yard line. Rushing again, East Valley scored its second touchdown and converted a field goal, making it 14-0 after the first few minutes of the game.
In the second quarter, Bonners Ferry held back East Valley and senior Trey Bateman caught a touchdown pass from quarterback Brody Rice making it 14-6 at halftime.
Sulay Abubakari also caught a touchdown pass from Rice in the fourth quarter.
“Matt Treutelaar ran the ball well behind the best offensive line play of the year,” said Bonners Ferry head coach Danny Swift. “East Valley started the game with a reverse for a touchdown and scored quickly, following a bad snap on the ensuing punt.”
Swift said both offense and defense played well until injuries took their toll in the second half, and the game slipped away.
“Sophomore Kai Aitken and freshman Jacob Solt filled in admirably as injuries and illness have taken a toll on the varsity team of late,” he said.
Last year, the Badgers defeated the Knights 46-6.
The Badgers face 3A St. Maries Lumberjacks (1-4) this Friday at 7 p.m. in St. Maries. On Oct. 6, the Badgers play 2A Kellogg (1-4) at home.
Badger JV football had defeated East Valley 20-12. The JV defense was led by two more interceptions from Alex Stolley.
“A solid run game helped the Badgers win a second consecutive game,” Swift said. “Taysean Spotted-Horse, Alex Stolley and Keenan Maas all scored rushing touchdowns. The offense was led by outstanding offensive line play.”
East Valley 34, BF 14
East Valley (14)0(13)7—34
Bonners Ferry 0608—14