Fieldcrest Struggles with Turnovers in Loss to Tri-Valley

Fieldcrest faced significant challenges in its season opener against the Class 2A No. 2-ranked Tri-Valley, ultimately losing 52-12 on September 1, 2023, in Minonk. The Knights struggled to maintain possession, committing six turnovers that proved disastrous against a strong opponent.

The game began with Fieldcrest receiving the opening kickoff but quickly stalling on offense. The Vikings showcased their speed early, with Preston Johnson making a notable 14-yard gain on the first play. Key contributions from Tommy Harris, who added a 6-yard run, and a substantial block from Kyle Reeser, enabled Harris to score with a 52-yard touchdown run, putting Tri-Valley ahead 7-0.

Fieldcrest’s difficulties mounted when quarterback Kash Klendworth fumbled during a passing attempt, resulting in a swift turnover. Tri-Valley capitalized immediately, with Johnson rushing for a 12-yard gain followed by a 17-yard touchdown run to double their lead to 14-0.

Despite the setbacks, Fieldcrest began to find some rhythm on offense. Lucas Anson carried the ball for 26 yards on two plays, and Zach Overocker added a 15-yard run, allowing Anson to score with a 15-yard touchdown run, narrowing the gap to 14-6 after a failed extra point attempt.

Tri-Valley’s offense remained relentless, with Harris contributing runs of 13 and 9 yards. Johnson then executed a 27-yard touchdown run, extending the Vikings’ lead to 21-6. Fieldcrest seemed poised to respond when Anson, aided by a block from Braydin Eplin, made a remarkable 45-yard run. Unfortunately, a fumble on the next play allowed Tri-Valley to recover and quickly score again, with Harris sprinting for a 77-yard touchdown, bringing the score to 28-6.

“You can’t turn the ball over against anyone, let alone the No. 2 team in 2A,” remarked Fieldcrest coach Nick Meyer. He acknowledged the talent of Tri-Valley, stating, “They got size and speed, and every time we turned the ball over, they scored.” Meyer noted some positive plays, particularly from Anson, but emphasized the need for improvement.

As the first half neared its conclusion, Klendworth’s struggles continued, culminating in a pick-six thrown to Grayson Coughlin, pushing Tri-Valley’s lead to 35-6 at halftime.

The Vikings resumed their dominant performance in the second half, with Harris contributing an 18-yard run followed by an 11-yard touchdown run, increasing the score to 42-6. Fieldcrest faced another setback as a blindside block negated what appeared to be a first down, forcing them to punt again.

Tri-Valley continued to display its depth, with Kix Yaklich and Koen Rebenszki contributing to a subsequent scoring drive that ended with a 5-yard touchdown run for Rebenszki, widening the margin to 49-6. A subsequent turnover by Fieldcrest led to a 28-yard field goal from Rebenszki, bringing the score to 52-6.

Fieldcrest managed to end the game on a positive note when Anson, who had an impressive night, capped off his performance with a 45-yard touchdown run. He led all rushers with 223 yards and two touchdowns on 23 carries.

Tri-Valley coach Josh Roop expressed satisfaction with his team’s offensive display but noted areas for defensive improvement as the season progresses. For the Vikings, Harris finished with 139 yards and two touchdowns on just eight carries, while Johnson added 99 yards and two touchdowns on seven attempts.

Fieldcrest will look to bounce back in their next game on September 8, 2023, when they travel to face El Paso-Gridley.