The Jayton Jaybirds fell to the Aspermont Hornets 76 to 38 on a muddy Friday night. Head Coach Josh Stanaland knew before the season began that starting the season with back-to-back games against Division 1 opponents (Aspermont and Knox City) who made the playoffs last year would be a challenge. Adding to the difficulties were playing without starting center and defensive linemen Keldon Moorhead, sidelined with a broken finger, and running back Aaron Hernandez who is out with a knee injury.
On offense, the Jaybirds had little trouble moving the ball early in the contest by relying on Tye Scogin who gained a combined 257 yards in rushing and receptions and scored four touchdowns. Scogin was able to make great plays under duress as many of the Aspermont defenders chased him up and down the field. The Jaybirds were able to convert two fourth-downs early in the game, one of which was a crafty touchdown pass to Caleb Valerio in the back of the end zone. Pecos Smith also scored a rushing touchdown.
Aspermont, who returned five starters from last year’s playoff team, were able to dominate the line of scrimmage early and often to move the ball down the field. The Hornets went into the 2nd half with a 10-point lead. They received the ball in the second half and scored on their first play on offense. Aspermont never looked back and built a sizeable lead while keeping the Jaybirds at bay.
While starting the season 0 and 2, the Jaybirds still have their sights on building on what they have learned thus far. The return of Moorhead and Hernandez will allow the team to play at full strength just as the newcomers acclimate to the system. “We know what we need to do,” said Stanaland. “There is a lot of season left and we will continue to improve.”
The Jaybirds will have that opportunity as they travel to Chillicothe on Friday, Sept. 14 to take on the Eagles. The Jayton Junior High will open their season as well, playing before the varsity teams take the field.
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