The West Elk Patriots traveled to Argonia for their season opener, last Friday. Sept. 5, where the Patriots suffered a 12-60 loss.
Patriot senior Garett Usry recorded both of West Elk’s touchdowns in the first quarter, with a 2-yard run and a 68-yard kick off return. Neither 2-point conversion pass play was successful. The Patriots trailed 12-24 after the first; 12-38 at halftime; 12-52 after three and concluded the game 12-60.
Junior Jaxson Bogdahn was successful on 7 of 13 passes for 67 yards; with Usry finding receivers on 3 of 9 for 14 yards.
Usry lead the way for the Patriots with 15 carries and 61 yards. Senior Trace Toon rushed 10 times for 19 yards.
Usry also led the Patriots in total yards, with a combined total of 238 yards (61 rush, 53 receiving and 124 kick return).
On defense, Usry recorded 13 tackles, senior Matt Dean had 10, Toon 9, senior Jared Tucker had 8 and junior Landon Wunderlich recorded 5 to lead the Patriots defensively. Also contributing on defense were Bogdahn who recorded an interception and Roman Moreno who recovered a fumble.
“I want to commend our team for their effort despite the outcome. We didn’'t execute at the level we’re capable of, but that doesn't diminish the heart shown on the field,” stated head coach Ian Dention. “We’ll spend this week focusing on correcting our mistakes to give ourselves a better chance to succeed. Looking ahead, we face a tough Oxford team at home this Friday. They bring size and physicality, which will challenge us, but we’re committed to preparing diligently to compete at our very best.”
The Patriots will host Oxford this Friday, Sept. 12, at 7 p.m.
