by Bill Turner
Patrick Henry’s bid to capture the Western Valley District football crown came up short Friday night at Merrill Gainer Field as Franklin County decisively turned away the Patriots 34-0.
On a rainy night in which temperatures stayed in the high 30s, the Patriots were their own worst enemy, turning the ball over five times, while only producing 127 total yards in offense.
On the other side of the ball, Franklin County amassed 389 yards in offense and outpaced the Patriots in first downs, 17-7.
The Eagles led 14-0 at the half, with a pinpoint 16-yard touchdown pass on the last play of the second quarter giving Franklin County huge momentum heading to the locker room. The Eagles tacked on two touchdowns in the third quarter and another in the final frame to pull away.
Xavier Whorley led the PH rushing attack with 26 yards on 13 carries as Franklin County’s defense controlled the line of scrimmage. Ealy Ogden led the Patriot receiving corps with two catches good for 42 yards, while Jha-Liel Harden brought in a first quarter throw for 30 yards.
Patrick Henry falls to 6-3 with the loss. The Patriots end the season this Friday night with a visit to cross-town rival William Fleming. Kickoff is set for 7:00 p.m.
