SOUTHERN BOUNCES BULLDOGS
SALINEVILLE, OH- Southern Local seized the spotlight during their solitary home football game in a span of five weeks, delivering an impressive 42-7 victory over East Palestine on a memorable Friday evening.
The Indians wasted no time making their mark, as Richie Sloan ignited the scoreboard with a dazzling 43-yard touchdown run in the first quarter, setting the tone at 7-0. Shortly thereafter, Ryan Exline showcased his speed with a remarkable 64-yard touchdown run, further extending the lead. Timmy Potts then exhibited his passing prowess, connecting with Markell Smith on a 31-yard touchdown strike that sent Southern ahead 21-0 by the close of the opening quarter.
The second quarter began with a defensive standout moment when Markell Smith intercepted a pass and dashed an astounding 80 yards into the end zone for yet another Southern touchdown. With a mere 2:24 remaining in the half, Ryan Exline found the end zone once more, this time with a 7-yard touchdown run, culminating in a commanding 35-0 lead heading into halftime.
The third quarter saw Ayden Frischkorn contribute to Southern’s impressive lead with a 20-yard touchdown run at the 9:47 mark.
East Palestine, determined to get on the board, finally found their opportunity with Owen Jurjavcic’s 9-yard touchdown run, putting them on the scoreboard with 8:50 remaining in the game.
Southern High School, now boasting a season record of 3-2, with a league record of 2-1, is geared up for their upcoming clash with Columbiana next Friday. Thanks to Lisbon’s recent upset victory over United, the Indians have surged back into contention and are currently tied for second place in the league alongside Columbiana and United. While Valley Christian maintains their league lead, they still have pivotal matchups against United, Lisbon, Columbiana, and Southern in the immediate future.
Meanwhile, East Palestine, with a season record of 0-6 and a league record of 0-3, is preparing to host Wellsville next Friday in hopes of turning their fortunes around.
