BROOKLYN — Missing quarterback Gio Rodas is one thing. Add on star tailback Lewis Koser not dressed due to an injury suffered in last week’s loss to Chief Leschi and two dynamic playmakers are gone.
The Oakville-North River football team was already behind the eight-ball on Friday afternoon. They never got out in front.
Wahkiakum, one of the premier teams in Class 1B this fall, erupted for 52 points in the first half on their way to a 60-6 win over the Acorns at North River High School.
“We’re doing the best we can do,” ONR head coach Camren Bowes said. “I think they did a fantastic job for the circumstances we were in.”
Early in the first quarter, all-around weapon Jordan Eichelberger left the game and did not return. That made it three starters all not playing. Bowes said he’s hopeful for Koser to return next week versus Taholah while Rodas might be out until October.
The Mules took full advantage. They scored two defensive touchdowns and ran just seven offensive plays to lead 44-0 after the opening frame. It was a running clock for the majority of the afternoon.
ONR did get on the board late in the fourth. Eighth grade lineman Sia Gisa caught a TD pass in the final five minutes of the contest.
Bowes believes what transpired in the end zone, celebrating Gisa’s touchdown, is the sign of a team that seeks to turn things around after a two-game skid.
“Practice, practice, practice is going to be key for us,” Bowes said. “They’ve always been a positive group. They always give 100 percent effort; I don’t see anyone dwelling.”
