MONTEZUMA – Braves fans were just settling in to their seats for Friday’s homecoming game when they noticed the football resting on Montezuma’s three-yard line.
Moments later, it was in the end zone and Moravia had a 6-0 lead on the Braves, the number six team in this week’s Class 8 poll.
“They didn’t say anything about turbulence on this flight,” thought the fans.
Not to worry. Just a little clear air turbulence. It soon cleared the area and Montezuma got to work.
The Braves set sail on a 42-point first half onslaught which set up a mercy clock after halftime. Reserves played most of the second half and Montezuma added one touchdown in the fourth quarter of a 48-6 win over the Mohawks.
Quarterback Brady Boulton threw for four touchdowns and ran for another.
Fullback Dane Strong ran for a touchdown and caught a TD pass from Boulton.
Wide receiver Luke Brennan ran under two touchdown strikes and Rett Pargeon caught one TD ball.
Running back Wylie Walters ran for the fourth quarter score.
Braxton Plants caught one two-point conversion pass, and ran for another two-pointer.
The win took the Braves to 3-1 overall, but kept them unbeaten in the District 7 race.
Moravia is 2-2 overall.
Earlier this week, Braves coach John Beck said, “I am pleased with the improvement of the team,” talking specifically about the Iowa Valley game.
“We were the most physical I have seen this year, and that is something that we are going to need as we finish out our district play. That being said, there is always room for improvement, especially in the little things.”
“In big games, physicality, turnovers and special teams are areas that we have to win,” Beck said.
“Overall, our team has made significant progress this year and we need to continue making those strides.”
“We have not hit our ceiling yet,” Beck said, “and that is the positive of it all.”
SCORE BY QUARTERS
Moravia 6 0 0 0 – 6
Montezuma 28 14 0 6 – 48