HAYS, KS - Missouri Western did two things especially well against Central Oklahoma in week one - running the football and playing defense.

The Griffons (2-0) played to those strengths again Thursday, rushing for 311 yards scoring all of their points on the ground and coming up with key stops on defense in a 35-19 over Fort Hays State at Lewis Field Stadium in Hays, Kansas Thursday.

Missouri Western scored its fourth straight win over the Tigers and get off to a 2-0 start for the first time since 2016.

"We were able to run the ball really well," Missouri Western head coach Matt Williamson told KFEQ Radio after. "Been doing some really, really solid things that I'm happy to see. Defense played really great again. A lot of really solid things. Solid effort."

The Griffons went on offense to start the game, and it took them less than two minutes to put up points. Aided by a roughing the passer penalty on third and long, sophomore running back Brandon Hall found the end zone on a 46-yard rushing touchdown, putting the Griffons up 7-0 with 13:18 left in the first quarter.

Fort Hays State (0-2) came up empty on its first two possessions. The Tigers were without all-MIAA quarterback and the program's all-time leading passer Chance Fuller, who was held out after getting banged up at Northwest Missouri State the week prior.

The Griffons, meanwhile, were firing on all cylinders on offense early. A 59-yard run by junior running back Jared Scott set up an easy, eight-yard touchdown run by Hall, putting the Griffons up 14-0 with 3:57 remaining in the first.

Hall rushed for 101 yards and two touchdowns.

Hays responded, pulling together a seven-play, 79-yard drive that was capped off by a three-yard touchdown pass from backup quarterback Jack Dawson to running back Adrian Soto, making it a 14-7 game after one quarter.

Hays was driving into Missouri Western territory again halfway through the second, but a turnover on downs by the Tigers set the Griffons up on their own 40.

A 19-yard reception by junior receiver Cooper Burton kickstarted another scoring drive for Missouri Western. Scott capped a 10-play, 60 yard drive with a six-yard touchdown run to make it 21-7 Griffons with 2:33 left in the first half.

That was Scott's first touchdown as a Griffon since November 2019. Scott sat out all of 2021 with an ankle injury after rushing for 297 yards and four scores in 2019.

"That's a great team win," Scott said. "I just follow the (offensive) line. They did everything, really. Tried to get downhill. Run through people's face. If you run through people's face enough times, they don't want to tackle you. So, that's what I tried to do."

Hays had time to respond in the second quarter and got deep into Griffon territory in the closing minutes of the first half, thanks to a 43-yard reception by Manny Ramsey.

With 56 seconds left until halftime, Dawson took a shot at the endzone from 15 yards out, but was picked off by sophomore corner Desmond Green, allowing the Griffons to take a 21-7 lead into the locker room.

Hays got the ball to start the second half, but went three-and-out on their first possession. Missouri Western, on the other hand, milked seven minutes of clock on its first possession of the 3rd quarter.

An 11-play, 85-yard drive ended with a 23-yard touchdown run by quarterback Reagan Jones, making it 28-7 Griffons with 5:20 left in the third.

Six different Griffons got a carry, as Missouri Western rushed for 311 total yards and averaged 6.3 yards per carry as a team.

Hays was held to just one first down and 25 yards of offense in the third quarter. Missouri Western, meanwhile, scored on both of their possessions in the third, holding the ball for more than 10 minutes of that quarter.

Thanks largely to a 40-yard catch by receiver Caleb Martin, the Griffons found the end zone again late in the third. Scott ran it in from two yards out, giving Western a commanding 35-7 lead at the start of the fourth.

Scott rushed for a career-best 125 yards and two touchdowns - his first multi-touchdown game since September 2019 against Northeastern State.

Having not played since the 2019 season, Scott credits the Missouri Western training staff for getting him back into game form.

"They did a great job of rehab and I spent a lot of time in the training room," Scott said. "They do a great job. They work with me and they work hard. They put in a lot of hours, so hats off to them. I just tried to watch a lot of film, and see a lot of things and it's helping right now. I'm starting to see things and it's starting to slow down. It's not as fast."

Fort Hays State rallied in the fourth, stringing together back-to-back scoring drives. Soto and Dawson each had rushing scores, but Missouri Western blocked both point-after tries in the fourth quarter - one block was a combined effort by Brandon Johnson and A.J. Crayton. Another was blocked by Isaac Wallace.

The Tigers had two more possessions in the game's final five minutes - one ended in turnover on downs and another in punt.

"Our kids fought hard and we found a way," Williamson said. "We won the game. We're 2-0."

Fort Hays State was just 2-of-11 on third down and 1-of-3 on fourth. Dawson went 17-of-33 through the air for the Tigers, passing for 243 yards with one touchdown and an interception in his first collegiate start. He also rushed for 25 yards and a score and was never sacked.

His top target was Manny Ramsey, who finished with five catches for 123 yards.

Missouri Western goes back on the road Saturday, September 17 to face Emporia State at 6 p.m. The game will be on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3, 680kfeq.com, KFEQ app) with pregame starting at 5.

The Hornets lost at Central Oklahoma 21-13 Thursday. Fort Hays State is at Lincoln on Sept. 17 as well.

You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662701378852.jpeg" alt="Missouri Western's Jared Scott (6) celebrates a touchdown in the second half during the Griffons' 35-19 win at Fort Hays State Thursday. Photo by Derek Zimmerman-Guyer." />
 <figcaption>Missouri Western's Jared Scott (6) celebrates a touchdown in the second half during the Griffons' 35-19 win at Fort Hays State Thursday. Photo by Derek Zimmerman-Guyer.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostHAYS, KS - Missouri Western did two things especially well against Central Oklahoma in week one - running the football and playing defense.The Griffons (2-0) played to those strengths again Thursday, rushing for 311 yards scoring all of their points on the ground and coming up with key stops on defense in a 35-19 over Fort Hays State at Lewis Field Stadium in Hays, Kansas Thursday.Missouri Western scored its fourth straight win over the Tigers and get off to a 2-0 start for the first time since 2016."We were able to run the ball really well," Missouri Western head coach Matt Williamson told KFEQ Radio after. "Been doing some really, really solid things that I'm happy to see. Defense played really great again. A lot of really solid things. Solid effort."The Griffons went on offense to start the game, and it took them less than two minutes to put up points. Aided by a roughing the passer penalty on third and long, sophomore running back Brandon Hall found the end zone on a 46-yard rushing touchdown, putting the Griffons up 7-0 with 13:18 left in the first quarter.Fort Hays State (0-2) came up empty on its first two possessions. The Tigers were without all-MIAA quarterback and the program's all-time leading passer Chance Fuller, who was held out after getting banged up at Northwest Missouri State the week prior.The Griffons, meanwhile, were firing on all cylinders on offense early. A 59-yard run by junior running back Jared Scott set up an easy, eight-yard touchdown run by Hall, putting the Griffons up 14-0 with 3:57 remaining in the first.Hall rushed for 101 yards and two touchdowns.Hays responded, pulling together a seven-play, 79-yard drive that was capped off by a three-yard touchdown pass from backup quarterback Jack Dawson to running back Adrian Soto, making it a 14-7 game after one quarter.Hays was driving into Missouri Western territory again halfway through the second, but a turnover on downs by the Tigers set the Griffons up on their own 40.A 19-yard reception by junior receiver Cooper Burton kickstarted another scoring drive for Missouri Western. Scott capped a 10-play, 60 yard drive with a six-yard touchdown run to make it 21-7 Griffons with 2:33 left in the first half.That was Scott's first touchdown as a Griffon since November 2019. Scott sat out all of 2021 with an ankle injury after rushing for 297 yards and four scores in 2019."That's a great team win," Scott said. "I just follow the (offensive) line. They did everything, really. Tried to get downhill. Run through people's face. If you run through people's face enough times, they don't want to tackle you. So, that's what I tried to do."Hays had time to respond in the second quarter and got deep into Griffon territory in the closing minutes of the first half, thanks to a 43-yard reception by Manny Ramsey.With 56 seconds left until halftime, Dawson took a shot at the endzone from 15 yards out, but was picked off by sophomore corner Desmond Green, allowing the Griffons to take a 21-7 lead into the locker room.Hays got the ball to start the second half, but went three-and-out on their first possession. Missouri Western, on the other hand, milked seven minutes of clock on its first possession of the 3rd quarter.An 11-play, 85-yard drive ended with a 23-yard touchdown run by quarterback Reagan Jones, making it 28-7 Griffons with 5:20 left in the third.Six different Griffons got a carry, as Missouri Western rushed for 311 total yards and averaged 6.3 yards per carry as a team.Hays was held to just one first down and 25 yards of offense in the third quarter. Missouri Western, meanwhile, scored on both of their possessions in the third, holding the ball for more than 10 minutes of that quarter.Thanks largely to a 40-yard catch by receiver Caleb Martin, the Griffons found the end zone again late in the third. Scott ran it in from two yards out, giving Western a commanding 35-7 lead at the start of the fourth.Scott rushed for a career-best 125 yards and two touchdowns - his first multi-touchdown game since September 2019 against Northeastern State.Having not played since the 2019 season, Scott credits the Missouri Western training staff for getting him back into game form."They did a great job of rehab and I spent a lot of time in the training room," Scott said. "They do a great job. They work with me and they work hard. They put in a lot of hours, so hats off to them. I just tried to watch a lot of film, and see a lot of things and it's helping right now. I'm starting to see things and it's starting to slow down. It's not as fast."Fort Hays State rallied in the fourth, stringing together back-to-back scoring drives. Soto and Dawson each had rushing scores, but Missouri Western blocked both point-after tries in the fourth quarter - one block was a combined effort by Brandon Johnson and A.J. Crayton. Another was blocked by Isaac Wallace.The Tigers had two more possessions in the game's final five minutes - one ended in turnover on downs and another in punt."Our kids fought hard and we found a way," Williamson said. "We won the game. We're 2-0."Fort Hays State was just 2-of-11 on third down and 1-of-3 on fourth. Dawson went 17-of-33 through the air for the Tigers, passing for 243 yards with one touchdown and an interception in his first collegiate start. He also rushed for 25 yards and a score and was never sacked.His top target was Manny Ramsey, who finished with five catches for 123 yards.Missouri Western goes back on the road Saturday, September 17 to face Emporia State at 6 p.m. The game will be on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3, 680kfeq.com, KFEQ app) with pregame starting at 5.The Hornets lost at Central Oklahoma 21-13 Thursday. Fort Hays State is at Lincoln on Sept. 17 as well.<div><iframe src="https://anchor.fm/tommy-rezac/embed/episodes/Missouri-Western-vs--Fort-Hays-State-postgame---Matt-Williamson-e1nj7mt" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div><div><iframe src="https://anchor.fm/tommy-rezac/embed/episodes/Missouri-Western-vs--Fort-Hays-State-postgame---Jared-Scott-e1nj7nk" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Missouri Western builds big lead, knocks off Fort Hays State on the road Thursday

It was a seesaw of a match for the Benton volleyball team at Springer Gymnasium Wednesday.

The Cardinals (6-2) dominated the first set 25-16 before dropping sets two and three 25-21 and 25-20 respectively. Down 21-16 in set four, it didn't look good for Benton.

The seesaw, however, finally tilted back in Benton's direction, as the Cardinals rallied to win set four 26-24 and dominated early to take set five 15-8 over East Buchanan.

The Cardinals snatched one from the jaws of defeat and came back to win against a solid Class 2 foe.

"We struggled last night (against Lawson) with energy and keeping that energy up and staying together as a team," Benton coach Lauryn Doolan said. "We fought through some battles tonight and we were a completely different team. Energy was up and it was a lot more fun, too."

Set one was practically all Benton. After getting swept at home against a great team in Lawson the night prior, the Cardinals came out with a ton of energy and jumped out to a 15-7 lead in the first set.

A big part of that was the eight blocks Benton had in the first set.&nbsp; Sophomore Andrea Simmons and freshman Cammie Peters combined for five blocks in the first set alone.

"It felt great," said Simmons, who finished the match with five kills, 4.5 blocks and an ace serve. "(East Buchanan) was getting scared, starting to tip, so it's just a big momentum builder."

It looked like set two would be more of the same, as Benton started that frame on a 6-1 run. East Buchanan came back, built a small lead and hung onto it down the stretch for a 25-21 win to knot the match at a set apiece. Senior Maya Watkins was particularly impressive with six kills in the second set alone.

Watkins was impressive all night with a match-high 20 kills to go with four blocks and an ace.

Set three was very back and forth, with the teams tied at 18-18. The Bulldogs (6-2-1) ended the third set on a 7-2 run to win it 25-20 and take a 2-1 lead in the match.

Set four appeared to be much of the same, with East Buchanan gaining control early and leading 21-16 - four points away from a four-set victory.

Doolan called the Cardinals' final timeout, and saw her team respond with what she felt like the team had been lacking midway through the match - energy.

Junior Hollie Peters, who led Benton Wednesday with 18 kills, took notice.

"Absolute energy," Peters said of her team's rally. "We just had so much more teamwork and we played together so much better."

Benton ended the fourth set on a 10-4 run and won it 26-24. The Cardinals left little doubt early in set five, jumping out to a 7-0 lead and ultimately hanging on to win the fifth 15-8.

"This is definitely a little confidence boost," Doolan said after an up and down match. "A little morale pick-me-up."

Cammie Peters had three kills and 3.5 blocks for Benton in the victory. Junior Avery Morlock had five kills, two aces and a block. Senior Berlin Smith contributed three blocks and two aces as well.

Senior Gracie Kelsey was impressive down the stretch for East Buchanan with seven kills and two blocks. Junior Holly Caylor had six kills, as did sophomore Rilyn Sherwood. Junior Kylie Clark logged three kills.

The win for Benton snapped what was a four-match winning streak for East Buchanan, and the Cardinals are off to their best start through eight matches since 2018.

"This will help us so much honestly," Peters said. "With the win and the energy we had from tonight, we'll bring it forward and I just think we're going to do great."

Benton will play for a third straight night when they head to Cameron for a 6:15 p.m. match Thursday. East Buchanan is home to Northland Christian Thursday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662606249620.jpeg" alt="Benton's Andrea Simmons (5) and East Buchanan's Kylie Clark (23) joust at the net during Wednesday's match. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Benton's Andrea Simmons (5) and East Buchanan's Kylie Clark (23) joust at the net during Wednesday's match. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostIt was a seesaw of a match for the Benton volleyball team at Springer Gymnasium Wednesday.The Cardinals (6-2) dominated the first set 25-16 before dropping sets two and three 25-21 and 25-20 respectively. Down 21-16 in set four, it didn't look good for Benton.The seesaw, however, finally tilted back in Benton's direction, as the Cardinals rallied to win set four 26-24 and dominated early to take set five 15-8 over East Buchanan.The Cardinals snatched one from the jaws of defeat and came back to win against a solid Class 2 foe."We struggled last night (against Lawson) with energy and keeping that energy up and staying together as a team," Benton coach Lauryn Doolan said. "We fought through some battles tonight and we were a completely different team. Energy was up and it was a lot more fun, too."Set one was practically all Benton. After getting swept at home against a great team in Lawson the night prior, the Cardinals came out with a ton of energy and jumped out to a 15-7 lead in the first set.A big part of that was the eight blocks Benton had in the first set.&nbsp; Sophomore Andrea Simmons and freshman Cammie Peters combined for five blocks in the first set alone."It felt great," said Simmons, who finished the match with five kills, 4.5 blocks and an ace serve. "(East Buchanan) was getting scared, starting to tip, so it's just a big momentum builder."It looked like set two would be more of the same, as Benton started that frame on a 6-1 run. East Buchanan came back, built a small lead and hung onto it down the stretch for a 25-21 win to knot the match at a set apiece. Senior Maya Watkins was particularly impressive with six kills in the second set alone.Watkins was impressive all night with a match-high 20 kills to go with four blocks and an ace.Set three was very back and forth, with the teams tied at 18-18. The Bulldogs (6-2-1) ended the third set on a 7-2 run to win it 25-20 and take a 2-1 lead in the match.Set four appeared to be much of the same, with East Buchanan gaining control early and leading 21-16 - four points away from a four-set victory.Doolan called the Cardinals' final timeout, and saw her team respond with what she felt like the team had been lacking midway through the match - energy.Junior Hollie Peters, who led Benton Wednesday with 18 kills, took notice."Absolute energy," Peters said of her team's rally. "We just had so much more teamwork and we played together so much better."Benton ended the fourth set on a 10-4 run and won it 26-24. The Cardinals left little doubt early in set five, jumping out to a 7-0 lead and ultimately hanging on to win the fifth 15-8."This is definitely a little confidence boost," Doolan said after an up and down match. "A little morale pick-me-up."Cammie Peters had three kills and 3.5 blocks for Benton in the victory. Junior Avery Morlock had five kills, two aces and a block. Senior Berlin Smith contributed three blocks and two aces as well.Senior Gracie Kelsey was impressive down the stretch for East Buchanan with seven kills and two blocks. Junior Holly Caylor had six kills, as did sophomore Rilyn Sherwood. Junior Kylie Clark logged three kills.The win for Benton snapped what was a four-match winning streak for East Buchanan, and the Cardinals are off to their best start through eight matches since 2018."This will help us so much honestly," Peters said. "With the win and the energy we had from tonight, we'll bring it forward and I just think we're going to do great."Benton will play for a third straight night when they head to Cameron for a 6:15 p.m. match Thursday. East Buchanan is home to Northland Christian Thursday.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662606277913.jpeg" alt="Eliana Arumbula." />
 <figcaption>Eliana Arumbula.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662606295632.jpeg" alt="Emma Loehnig." />
 <figcaption>Emma Loehnig.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662606329214.jpeg" alt="Gracie Kelsey (21) tries to block Hollie Peters (12)." />
 <figcaption>Gracie Kelsey (21) tries to block Hollie Peters (12).</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662606358801.jpeg" alt="Maya Watkins." />
 <figcaption>Maya Watkins.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662606384737.jpeg" alt="Kinzie Woodside." />
 <figcaption>Kinzie Woodside.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662606417113.jpeg" alt="Kylie Clark (23)." />
 <figcaption>Kylie Clark (23).</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Benton battles back, beats East Buchanan in five sets Wednesday

The St. Joseph Sports Commission has named Missouri Western women's basketball coach Candi Whitaker as the inaugural winner of the Woman of Impact Award.

In conjunction with the St. Joseph Area Sports Hall of Fame’s Class of 2022 induction ceremony and in celebration of the 50th&nbsp;Anniversary of Title IX,&nbsp;the Woman of Impact Award recognizes outstanding achievement from a female athlete, coach, administrator or contributor over the past year.

In her third season at Missouri Western, Whitaker led the Griffons back to the Elite Eight for the first time since 1995 with a Central Region Championship win over Fort Hays State in Hays, Kansas this past March.

Whitaker helped Missouri Western to a 24-win season - her second 20-plus win season in her three-year tenure. The berth in the NCAA tournament was a first for the Griffon women's program since 2016.

The Woman of Impact Award was also inspired by Kansas State legend and St. Joseph native Bill Snyder, who spoke of the strong impact his mother, Marionetta, made on his life during his induction speech at the inaugural Hall of Fame ceremony last September. Snyder will be on hand to present the award.

Whitaker will be honored on Sunday, September 18 at the Stoney Creek Hotel and Conference Center on the same night as the 2022 St. Joseph Area Sports Hall of Fame class, consisting of 10 individual inductees, one team and the Special Olympics Athlete of the Year.

Social hour begins at 4 p.m. with the ceremony starting at 5 PM.&nbsp; Tickets are $25 per person, and may be purchased at stjomosports.com or by calling 816-233-6688.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662586584600.jpeg" alt="Candi Whitaker at 2021 MIAA Media Day. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Candi Whitaker at 2021 MIAA Media Day. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe St. Joseph Sports Commission has named Missouri Western women's basketball coach Candi Whitaker as the inaugural winner of the Woman of Impact Award.In conjunction with the St. Joseph Area Sports Hall of Fame’s Class of 2022 induction ceremony and in celebration of the 50th&nbsp;Anniversary of Title IX,&nbsp;the Woman of Impact Award recognizes outstanding achievement from a female athlete, coach, administrator or contributor over the past year.In her third season at Missouri Western, Whitaker led the Griffons back to the Elite Eight for the first time since 1995 with a Central Region Championship win over Fort Hays State in Hays, Kansas this past March.Whitaker helped Missouri Western to a 24-win season - her second 20-plus win season in her three-year tenure. The berth in the NCAA tournament was a first for the Griffon women's program since 2016.The Woman of Impact Award was also inspired by Kansas State legend and St. Joseph native Bill Snyder, who spoke of the strong impact his mother, Marionetta, made on his life during his induction speech at the inaugural Hall of Fame ceremony last September. Snyder will be on hand to present the award.Whitaker will be honored on Sunday, September 18 at the Stoney Creek Hotel and Conference Center on the same night as the 2022 St. Joseph Area Sports Hall of Fame class, consisting of 10 individual inductees, one team and the Special Olympics Athlete of the Year.Social hour begins at 4 p.m. with the ceremony starting at 5 PM.&nbsp; Tickets are $25 per person, and may be purchased at stjomosports.com or by calling 816-233-6688.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662586654083.jpeg" alt="Missouri Western women's basketball coach Candi Whitaker (center, pink) is the winner of the inaugural St. Joseph Sports Commission Woman of Impact award. Her and the team, along with then interim athletic director Theresa Grosbach, pose after the Griffons' Central Region championship at Fort Hays State." />
 <figcaption>Missouri Western women's basketball coach Candi Whitaker (center, pink) is the winner of the inaugural St. Joseph Sports Commission Woman of Impact award. Her and the team, along with then interim athletic director Theresa Grosbach, pose after the Griffons' Central Region championship at Fort Hays State.</figcaption>
 </figure>

Missouri Western's Candi Whitaker wins inaugural Woman of Impact Award

(AP) — Shane Bieber pitched eight sharp innings, José Ramírez drove in two runs and the AL Central-leading Cleveland Guardians beat the Kansas City Royals 4-1. 

Bieber allowed one run and four hits. He struck out seven and walked one. Bieber is now 5-0 in his career against the Royals. The Guardians moved 1 1/2 games of Minnesota. 

The Royals lost their 82nd game, meaning they’ll have a losing record for the sixth straight season. Salvador Perez hit his 20th home run for Kansas City, the sixth year he’s reached the mark. He is tied with Mike Sweeney on the team list for the second-most seasons with at least 20 — George Brett holds the franchise record with eight.

The Royals take on Cleveland again Wednesday night with first pitch at 7:10 central. Coverage begins at 6:30 on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

(AP) — Shane Bieber pitched eight sharp innings, José Ramírez drove in two runs and the AL Central-leading Cleveland Guardians beat the Kansas City Royals 4-1. Bieber allowed one run and four hits. He struck out seven and walked one. Bieber is now 5-0 in his career against the Royals. The Guardians moved 1 1/2 games of Minnesota. The Royals lost their 82nd game, meaning they’ll have a losing record for the sixth straight season. Salvador Perez hit his 20th home run for Kansas City, the sixth year he’s reached the mark. He is tied with Mike Sweeney on the team list for the second-most seasons with at least 20 — George Brett holds the franchise record with eight.The Royals take on Cleveland again Wednesday night with first pitch at 7:10 central. Coverage begins at 6:30 on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

Bieber, Ramírez send AL Central-leading Guardians over KC

Softball Benton 5 Savannah 4. <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/a2c7e821-b4b9-4e28-8644-da8267754324">Full coverage here</a>. St. Joseph Central 8 Smithville 7 Bishop LeBlond 7 St. Pius X 0 Chillicothe 13 Lafayette 1 Mid-Buchanan 7 Falls City 2 North Andrew 12 Albany 0 Cameron 7 Maryville 4 DeKalb 6 Stewartsville-Osborn 3 King City 6 North Harrison 5 Worth County 16 Stanberry 11 East Buchanan @ St. Teresa’s Academy - missing

Volleyball Lawson 3 Benton 0 St. Joseph Central 3 Fort Osage 2 Lafayette 3 Mid-Buchanan 2 St. Joseph Christian 3 South Harrison 0 Savannah 3 East Kansas City 0 South Holt 3 Mound City 0

Boys’ soccer William Chrisman 1 St. Joseph Central 0 Chillicothe 5 Lafayette 0 Bishop LeBlond @ Northeast KC - missing Savannah @ Excelsior Springs - missing

Girls’ tennis Savannah 9 Maryville 0

Girls’ golf Benton took first over Lafayette, East Buchanan and Savannah at Fairview Golf Course. Taaliyah Hale was the medalist for Benton, shooting a 53.

Elsewhere, Maryville beat Mid-Buchanan 203-275 in a duel at Mozingo Lake Golf Course. Cailyn Auffert was the medalist for Maryille with a score of 43.

Cross Country The Benton boys finished second and the LeBlond boys fourth at the Chillicothe Invitational. St. Joseph Christian’s Joy Wallick finished 8th overall in the girls’ race. <a href="https://www.kcrunningcompany.com/results/?page_id=&amp;id=5963&amp;show=results">Full results here</a>.

Have a score or result we're missing? Email tommy.rezac@eagleradio.net.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662552776144.jpeg" alt="Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostSoftball Benton 5 Savannah 4. <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/a2c7e821-b4b9-4e28-8644-da8267754324">Full coverage here</a>. St. Joseph Central 8 Smithville 7 Bishop LeBlond 7 St. Pius X 0 Chillicothe 13 Lafayette 1 Mid-Buchanan 7 Falls City 2 North Andrew 12 Albany 0 Cameron 7 Maryville 4 DeKalb 6 Stewartsville-Osborn 3 King City 6 North Harrison 5 Worth County 16 Stanberry 11 East Buchanan @ St. Teresa’s Academy - missingVolleyball Lawson 3 Benton 0 St. Joseph Central 3 Fort Osage 2 Lafayette 3 Mid-Buchanan 2 St. Joseph Christian 3 South Harrison 0 Savannah 3 East Kansas City 0 South Holt 3 Mound City 0Boys’ soccer William Chrisman 1 St. Joseph Central 0 Chillicothe 5 Lafayette 0 Bishop LeBlond @ Northeast KC - missing Savannah @ Excelsior Springs - missingGirls’ tennis Savannah 9 Maryville 0Girls’ golf Benton took first over Lafayette, East Buchanan and Savannah at Fairview Golf Course. Taaliyah Hale was the medalist for Benton, shooting a 53.Elsewhere, Maryville beat Mid-Buchanan 203-275 in a duel at Mozingo Lake Golf Course. Cailyn Auffert was the medalist for Maryille with a score of 43.Cross Country The Benton boys finished second and the LeBlond boys fourth at the Chillicothe Invitational. St. Joseph Christian’s Joy Wallick finished 8th overall in the girls’ race. <a href="https://www.kcrunningcompany.com/results/?page_id=&amp;id=5963&amp;show=results">Full results here</a>.Have a score or result we're missing? Email tommy.rezac@eagleradio.net.

KFEQ/St. Joseph Post area high school scoreboard - September 6, 2022

The Benton softball team scored three runs in the first inning, led 4-0 in the third, were tied with Savannah in the fourth and scored the go-ahead run in the fifth in a 5-4 win over the Savages at Hyde Park Tuesday in a Class 3 District 8 matchup.

Benton (7-1) got the scoring started right away in the bottom of the first. Senior Andee Magnus scored fellow senior Wynter Hurst, who reached first via error.

The Cardinals benefitted from three Savannah errors in the first, and quickly led 3-0 after the first.

Benton then tallied five more hits in the third. Sophomore Isabel Foster stole home and the Cardinals left the bases loaded in the bottom of the third, but still led 4-0 entering the fourth.

"We were all seeing the ball pretty well," Foster said. "I don't know, we're doing a pretty good job."

Savannah (2-2) came alive in the top of the fourth. After the Savages loaded the bases with three walks, sophomore Dakota Crane cleared the bases with a two-run RBI double to center. Another run scored off of the throw, and Savannah tied it 4-4 in the middle of the fourth.

After a 1-2-3 frame by both teams, the Cardinals grabbed the lead back in the bottom of the fifth. Foster led off the frame with a single to center, and Hurst walked into bases loaded to score Foster, giving Benton a 5-4 advantage.

For a second time in the game, Benton left the bases loaded, but the Savages were retired in order in the final three innings, allowing the Cardinals to survive.

"I think we're evenly matched," Benton head coach Joey Hendrix said of the game with Savannah. "I think the score and the way this game was played showed that this could have gone either way."

Hurst tossed the complete game for Benton, allowing four hits, four runs and four walks. She also struck out two batters.

"I feel like our defense definitely had the effort behind it," Hurst said. "Some of the sliding plays and stuff like that. Trying to run for the balls. They had my back whenever I missed a spot or something."

Benton scored their five runs on eight hits and five Savannah errors. Foster was 2-for-4 with a team-best three runs scored. Junior Kayten Knowles and freshman Jerzey Ziolkowski each had a pair of hits as well.

The win Tuesday is Benton's third straight as the Cardinals are off to a fast 7-1 start. Hendrix really just wants to see his team do more of the same going forward.

"The girls are staying positive and staying up," Hendrix said. "Whether we're ahead or behind. A game like that against a team like that is only going to help you win more than lose down the line. I tip my cap to (Savannah). That's such a good team. Coach (B.J.) Winn is such a good coach. It's a good win for us."

Benton is home to St. Pius X on Thursday. Savannah is home to Hamilton/Penney on Wednesday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662510478073.jpeg" alt="Jerzey Ziolkowski lays down a bunt. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Jerzey Ziolkowski lays down a bunt. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe Benton softball team scored three runs in the first inning, led 4-0 in the third, were tied with Savannah in the fourth and scored the go-ahead run in the fifth in a 5-4 win over the Savages at Hyde Park Tuesday in a Class 3 District 8 matchup.Benton (7-1) got the scoring started right away in the bottom of the first. Senior Andee Magnus scored fellow senior Wynter Hurst, who reached first via error.The Cardinals benefitted from three Savannah errors in the first, and quickly led 3-0 after the first.Benton then tallied five more hits in the third. Sophomore Isabel Foster stole home and the Cardinals left the bases loaded in the bottom of the third, but still led 4-0 entering the fourth."We were all seeing the ball pretty well," Foster said. "I don't know, we're doing a pretty good job."Savannah (2-2) came alive in the top of the fourth. After the Savages loaded the bases with three walks, sophomore Dakota Crane cleared the bases with a two-run RBI double to center. Another run scored off of the throw, and Savannah tied it 4-4 in the middle of the fourth.After a 1-2-3 frame by both teams, the Cardinals grabbed the lead back in the bottom of the fifth. Foster led off the frame with a single to center, and Hurst walked into bases loaded to score Foster, giving Benton a 5-4 advantage.For a second time in the game, Benton left the bases loaded, but the Savages were retired in order in the final three innings, allowing the Cardinals to survive."I think we're evenly matched," Benton head coach Joey Hendrix said of the game with Savannah. "I think the score and the way this game was played showed that this could have gone either way."Hurst tossed the complete game for Benton, allowing four hits, four runs and four walks. She also struck out two batters."I feel like our defense definitely had the effort behind it," Hurst said. "Some of the sliding plays and stuff like that. Trying to run for the balls. They had my back whenever I missed a spot or something."Benton scored their five runs on eight hits and five Savannah errors. Foster was 2-for-4 with a team-best three runs scored. Junior Kayten Knowles and freshman Jerzey Ziolkowski each had a pair of hits as well.The win Tuesday is Benton's third straight as the Cardinals are off to a fast 7-1 start. Hendrix really just wants to see his team do more of the same going forward."The girls are staying positive and staying up," Hendrix said. "Whether we're ahead or behind. A game like that against a team like that is only going to help you win more than lose down the line. I tip my cap to (Savannah). That's such a good team. Coach (B.J.) Winn is such a good coach. It's a good win for us."Benton is home to St. Pius X on Thursday. Savannah is home to Hamilton/Penney on Wednesday.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662511263955.jpeg" alt="Adleigh Wilkerson." />
 <figcaption>Adleigh Wilkerson.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662511285532.jpeg" alt="Emma Newton." />
 <figcaption>Emma Newton.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662511306648.jpeg" alt="Haley Noland." />
 <figcaption>Haley Noland.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662511341986.jpeg" alt="Sladyr Duncan." />
 <figcaption>Sladyr Duncan.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662511428322.jpeg" alt="Wynter Hurst." />
 <figcaption>Wynter Hurst.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662511458324.jpeg" alt="Madison Kendall." />
 <figcaption>Madison Kendall.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Benton softball grabs early lead, holds off Savannah at Hyde Park Tuesday

(AP) — Óscar González hit a two-run double in the 10th inning and the Cleveland Guardians snapped a five-game losing streak, beating the Kansas City Royals 6-5 to regain sole possession of the AL Central lead.

 Cleveland moved a game ahead of Minnesota, which lost 5-2 to the New York Yankees. The third-place Chicago White Sox are one game behind the Twins. Josh Naylor homered for the Guardians, and Andrés Giménez scored twice. 

Emmanuel Clase earned his 31st save in 33 opportunities. Drew Waters hit his first major league home run for Kansas City, and Salvador Perez’s one-out RBI double in the eighth tied it at 4.

The Royals next take on Cleveland Tuesday night with first pitch at 7:10 central. Coverage begins at 6:30 on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

(AP) — Óscar González hit a two-run double in the 10th inning and the Cleveland Guardians snapped a five-game losing streak, beating the Kansas City Royals 6-5 to regain sole possession of the AL Central lead. Cleveland moved a game ahead of Minnesota, which lost 5-2 to the New York Yankees. The third-place Chicago White Sox are one game behind the Twins. Josh Naylor homered for the Guardians, and Andrés Giménez scored twice. Emmanuel Clase earned his 31st save in 33 opportunities. Drew Waters hit his first major league home run for Kansas City, and Salvador Perez’s one-out RBI double in the eighth tied it at 4.The Royals next take on Cleveland Tuesday night with first pitch at 7:10 central. Coverage begins at 6:30 on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

Guardians top Royals in 10 to snap skid, regain Central lead

(AP) — Bobby Witt Jr.’s eighth-inning double brought in the go-ahead run and the Kansas City Royals edged the Detroit Tigers 3-2. 

MJ Melendez scored a run and drove in another while Michael A. Taylor had three hits and scored a run. Witt reached base three times. Winning pitcher Dylan Coleman pitched 1 1/3 innings of scoreless relief. Scott Barlow collected his 21st save. 

Royals starter Max Castillo, recalled from Triple-A Omaha before the game, allowed two runs and five hits and struck out five in 4 2/3 innings.

The Royals next take on Cleveland Monday night with first pitch at 7:10 central. Coverage begins at 6:30 on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

(AP) — Bobby Witt Jr.’s eighth-inning double brought in the go-ahead run and the Kansas City Royals edged the Detroit Tigers 3-2. MJ Melendez scored a run and drove in another while Michael A. Taylor had three hits and scored a run. Witt reached base three times. Winning pitcher Dylan Coleman pitched 1 1/3 innings of scoreless relief. Scott Barlow collected his 21st save. Royals starter Max Castillo, recalled from Triple-A Omaha before the game, allowed two runs and five hits and struck out five in 4 2/3 innings.The Royals next take on Cleveland Monday night with first pitch at 7:10 central. Coverage begins at 6:30 on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

Witt's go-ahead double in 8th lifts Royals past Tigers, 3-2

(AP) — Kyle Isbel hit his first grand slam, Bobby Witt Jr. added a three-run home run and the Kansas City Royals routed the Detroit Tigers 12-2. 

Nick Pratto and MJ Melendez also homered for the Royals. Nate Eaton had four hits and drove in two runs. Winning pitcher Jonathan Heasley (3-7) gave up two earned runs and eight hits, with two walks and two strikeouts in seven innings. 

Tucker Barnhart hit his first home run of the season for Detroit. Tigers starter Michael Pineda (2-7) allowed five runs and six hits with three strikeouts and two walks in four innings.

The Royals take on the Tigers again Sunday afternoon with first pitch at 12:40 central. Coverage begins at 12:00 on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

(AP) — Kyle Isbel hit his first grand slam, Bobby Witt Jr. added a three-run home run and the Kansas City Royals routed the Detroit Tigers 12-2. Nick Pratto and MJ Melendez also homered for the Royals. Nate Eaton had four hits and drove in two runs. Winning pitcher Jonathan Heasley (3-7) gave up two earned runs and eight hits, with two walks and two strikeouts in seven innings. Tucker Barnhart hit his first home run of the season for Detroit. Tigers starter Michael Pineda (2-7) allowed five runs and six hits with three strikeouts and two walks in four innings.The Royals take on the Tigers again Sunday afternoon with first pitch at 12:40 central. Coverage begins at 12:00 on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

Isbel, Witt, Pratto, Melendez HRs power Royals past Tigers

(AP) — Ryan Kreidler scored twice in his major league debut including the go-ahead run on pinch-hitter Harold Castro’s seventh-inning single and the Detroit Tigers edged the Kansas City Royals 5-4. 

Kreidler was promoted from Triple-A Toledo on Thursday and drew two walks. Javier Baez hit a two-run homer and Willi Castro had three hits including a solo homer. 

Detroit snapped a three-game losing streak. Michael A. Taylor hit a two-run homer for the Royals who have dropped three straight. Andrew Chafin got the win with 1 1/3 innings of scoreless relief. Gregory Soto struck out the side in the ninth for his 24th save.

The Royals take on the Tigers Saturday afternoon with first pitch at 5:10 central. Coverage begins at 4:30 on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

(AP) — Ryan Kreidler scored twice in his major league debut including the go-ahead run on pinch-hitter Harold Castro’s seventh-inning single and the Detroit Tigers edged the Kansas City Royals 5-4. Kreidler was promoted from Triple-A Toledo on Thursday and drew two walks. Javier Baez hit a two-run homer and Willi Castro had three hits including a solo homer. Detroit snapped a three-game losing streak. Michael A. Taylor hit a two-run homer for the Royals who have dropped three straight. Andrew Chafin got the win with 1 1/3 innings of scoreless relief. Gregory Soto struck out the side in the ninth for his 24th save.The Royals take on the Tigers Saturday afternoon with first pitch at 5:10 central. Coverage begins at 4:30 on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

Kreidler scores twice in debut as Tigers top Royals 5-4

It's week 2 of high school football in Missouri, and week 1 in the state of Kansas! Here's a look at all of the KFEQ/St. Joseph Post area results.

MEC Cameron 22 (1-1) Southeast KC (0-2) 6 - FINAL - Southeast KC abruptly left the field with 10:08 remaining. No word as to why. - Week 3: Cameron home to St. Pius X

#10 Maryville 49 (1-1)&nbsp;Harrisonville 6 (0-2) - FINAL&nbsp; - Week 3: Chillicothe @ Maryville

Pleasant Hill 63 (2-0)&nbsp;Lafayette 7 (0-2) - FINAL - Week 3: Lafayette home to Benton (broadcast on StJosephPost.com)

St. Joseph Central 47 (2-0) @ Benton 13 (1-1) - FINAL - Central is 2-0 for the first time since 2007. - Week 3: Benton @ Lafayette (broadcast on StJosephPost.com) - Week 3: Central home to Raytown

Savannah 24 (2-0) East Buchanan 19 (1-1) - FINAL. <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/8ceafab1-bafb-44f3-b1a4-bb0dccf36ce2">Full coverage here</a>. - Savannah is 2-0 for the first time since 2014. - Week 3: East Buchanan home to North Platte - Week 3: Savannah @ Kirksville

Kirksville 40 (1-1)&nbsp;#6 Chillicothe 14 (1-1) - FINAL - Week 3: Chillicothe @ Maryville

KCI Gallatin 40 (2-0)&nbsp;Hamilton (0-2) 0 - FINAL - Week 3: Hamilton @ Lawson - Week 3: Gallatin @ South Harrison

#4 Mid-Buchanan 20 (2-0)&nbsp;Holden 14 (1-1) - FINAL - Week 3: Mid-Buchanan home to West Platte

Polo 55 (2-0)&nbsp;Plattsburg 20 (0-2) - FINAL - Week 3: Plattsburg home to Lathrop - Week 3: Polo home to Maysville

West Platte 21 (1-1) South Harrison 6 (0-2) - FINAL - Week 3: South Harrison home to Gallatin - Week 3: West Platte @ Mid-Buchanan

GRC 11-man Trenton 35 (2-0)&nbsp;Lathrop 0 (1-1) - FINAL - Week 3: Lathrop @ Plattsburg - Week 3: Trenton @ Princeton

North Platte&nbsp; 20 (1-1) Maysville (1-1) - FINAL - First win since Oct. 25, 2019 for North Platte, breaking a 22-game slide. - Week 3: Maysville @ Polo - Week 3: North Platte @ East Buchanan

GRC 8-man #2 North Andrew 64 (2-0) #6 Bishop LeBlond 36 (1-1) - FINAL - Week 3: North Andrew @ Pattonsburg - Week 3: LeBlond @ Worth County

Albany 54 (2-0)&nbsp;#7 Stanberry 32 (1-1) - FINAL - Week 3: Stanberry home to King City - Week 3: Albany @ Mound City

#5 Worth County 92 (2-0) St. Joseph Christian 12 (0-2) - FINAL - Week 3: Worth County home to LeBlond - Week 3: St. Joseph Christian home to Santa Fe

275 Conference Stewartsville-Osborn 40 (2-0) Mound City 12 (0-2) - FINAL - First 2-0 start for the Wildcards since 2005. - Week 3: Mound City home to Albany - Week 3: Stewartsville-Osborn @ Rock Port

#8 East Atchison 64 (2-0) Nodaway Valley 6 (0-2) - FINAL - Week 3: East Atchison @ South Holt - Week 3: Nodaway Valley home to Platte Valley

#10 King City 66 (1-1)&nbsp;DeKalb 0 (0-2) - FINAL - Week 3: DeKalb home to Southwest Livingston - Week 3: King City @ Stanberry

#4 Platte Valley 54 (2-0)&nbsp;Rock Port 16 (1-1) - FINAL - Week 3: Platte Valley @ Nodaway Valley - Week 3: Rock Port home to Stewartsville-Osborn

South Holt 80 (1-1) Southwest Livingston 46 (1-1) - FINAL - Week 3: South Holt home to East Atchison

Northeast Kansas Riverside 34&nbsp;Jefferson West 21 - FINAL - Week 2: Riverside @ Perry-Lecompton

Troy 28&nbsp;Waubunsee 22 - FINAL - Week 2: Troy @ Valley Falls

Hiawatha 26&nbsp;Royal Valley 19 - FINAL - Week 2: Hiawatha @ Jefferson West

Washington County 46 Doniphan West 0 - FINAL - Week 2: Cair (like care) Paravel @ Doniphan West

Atchison 31&nbsp;Ottawa 24 - FINAL - Week 2: Atchison home to Sumner County

Maur Hill-Prep Mount Academy 54 Oskaloosa 14 - FINAL - Week 2: Maur Hill home to Jackson Heights

Tune into Friday Night Lights on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3, 680kfeq.com, KFEQ app) every Friday night of the regular season from 10-11 p.m., or immediately following the conclusion of the Kansas City Royals game.

The show will feature every area score, plus live interviews with area head coaches.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661576415573.jpeg" alt="Photo by Harry Loomis." />
 <figcaption>Photo by Harry Loomis.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostIt's week 2 of high school football in Missouri, and week 1 in the state of Kansas! Here's a look at all of the KFEQ/St. Joseph Post area results.MEC Cameron 22 (1-1) Southeast KC (0-2) 6 - FINAL - Southeast KC abruptly left the field with 10:08 remaining. No word as to why. - Week 3: Cameron home to St. Pius X#10 Maryville 49 (1-1)&nbsp;Harrisonville 6 (0-2) - FINAL&nbsp; - Week 3: Chillicothe @ MaryvillePleasant Hill 63 (2-0)&nbsp;Lafayette 7 (0-2) - FINAL - Week 3: Lafayette home to Benton (broadcast on StJosephPost.com)St. Joseph Central 47 (2-0) @ Benton 13 (1-1) - FINAL - Central is 2-0 for the first time since 2007. - Week 3: Benton @ Lafayette (broadcast on StJosephPost.com) - Week 3: Central home to Raytown<div><iframe src="https://anchor.fm/tommy-rezac/embed/episodes/Friday-Night-Lights-9222---Regi-Trotter--Central-e1navvd" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>Savannah 24 (2-0) East Buchanan 19 (1-1) - FINAL. <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/8ceafab1-bafb-44f3-b1a4-bb0dccf36ce2">Full coverage here</a>. - Savannah is 2-0 for the first time since 2014. - Week 3: East Buchanan home to North Platte - Week 3: Savannah @ Kirksville<div><iframe src="https://anchor.fm/tommy-rezac/embed/episodes/Friday-Night-Lights-9222---Anthony-Hays--Savannah-e1navtq" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>Kirksville 40 (1-1)&nbsp;#6 Chillicothe 14 (1-1) - FINAL - Week 3: Chillicothe @ MaryvilleKCI Gallatin 40 (2-0)&nbsp;Hamilton (0-2) 0 - FINAL - Week 3: Hamilton @ Lawson - Week 3: Gallatin @ South Harrison#4 Mid-Buchanan 20 (2-0)&nbsp;Holden 14 (1-1) - FINAL - Week 3: Mid-Buchanan home to West Platte<div><iframe src="https://anchor.fm/tommy-rezac/embed/episodes/Friday-Night-Lights-9222---Aaron-Fritz--Mid-Buchanan-e1navp2" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>Polo 55 (2-0)&nbsp;Plattsburg 20 (0-2) - FINAL - Week 3: Plattsburg home to Lathrop - Week 3: Polo home to MaysvilleWest Platte 21 (1-1) South Harrison 6 (0-2) - FINAL - Week 3: South Harrison home to Gallatin - Week 3: West Platte @ Mid-BuchananGRC 11-man Trenton 35 (2-0)&nbsp;Lathrop 0 (1-1) - FINAL - Week 3: Lathrop @ Plattsburg - Week 3: Trenton @ PrincetonNorth Platte&nbsp; 20 (1-1) Maysville (1-1) - FINAL - First win since Oct. 25, 2019 for North Platte, breaking a 22-game slide. - Week 3: Maysville @ Polo - Week 3: North Platte @ East Buchanan<div><iframe src="https://anchor.fm/tommy-rezac/embed/episodes/Friday-Night-Lights-9222---Jared-Quigley--North-Platte-e1navs8" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>GRC 8-man #2 North Andrew 64 (2-0) #6 Bishop LeBlond 36 (1-1) - FINAL - Week 3: North Andrew @ Pattonsburg - Week 3: LeBlond @ Worth CountyAlbany 54 (2-0)&nbsp;#7 Stanberry 32 (1-1) - FINAL - Week 3: Stanberry home to King City - Week 3: Albany @ Mound City#5 Worth County 92 (2-0) St. Joseph Christian 12 (0-2) - FINAL - Week 3: Worth County home to LeBlond - Week 3: St. Joseph Christian home to Santa Fe275 Conference Stewartsville-Osborn 40 (2-0) Mound City 12 (0-2) - FINAL - First 2-0 start for the Wildcards since 2005. - Week 3: Mound City home to Albany - Week 3: Stewartsville-Osborn @ Rock Port<div><iframe src="https://anchor.fm/tommy-rezac/embed/episodes/Friday-Night-Lights-9222---Tommy-Fish--Stewartsville-Osborn-e1navqm" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>#8 East Atchison 64 (2-0) Nodaway Valley 6 (0-2) - FINAL - Week 3: East Atchison @ South Holt - Week 3: Nodaway Valley home to Platte Valley#10 King City 66 (1-1)&nbsp;DeKalb 0 (0-2) - FINAL - Week 3: DeKalb home to Southwest Livingston - Week 3: King City @ Stanberry#4 Platte Valley 54 (2-0)&nbsp;Rock Port 16 (1-1) - FINAL - Week 3: Platte Valley @ Nodaway Valley - Week 3: Rock Port home to Stewartsville-OsbornSouth Holt 80 (1-1) Southwest Livingston 46 (1-1) - FINAL - Week 3: South Holt home to East AtchisonNortheast Kansas Riverside 34&nbsp;Jefferson West 21 - FINAL - Week 2: Riverside @ Perry-LecomptonTroy 28&nbsp;Waubunsee 22 - FINAL - Week 2: Troy @ Valley FallsHiawatha 26&nbsp;Royal Valley 19 - FINAL - Week 2: Hiawatha @ Jefferson WestWashington County 46 Doniphan West 0 - FINAL - Week 2: Cair (like care) Paravel @ Doniphan WestAtchison 31&nbsp;Ottawa 24 - FINAL - Week 2: Atchison home to Sumner CountyMaur Hill-Prep Mount Academy 54 Oskaloosa 14 - FINAL - Week 2: Maur Hill home to Jackson HeightsTune into Friday Night Lights on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3, 680kfeq.com, KFEQ app) every Friday night of the regular season from 10-11 p.m., or immediately following the conclusion of the Kansas City Royals game.The show will feature every area score, plus live interviews with area head coaches.You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

KFEQ/St. Joseph Post area high school football scoreboard - September 2, 2022

Savannah built a 14-0 lead in the first seven minutes, led 24-7 at halftime and were then shut out in the second half, but held on for a 24-19 win over defending Class 1 state champion East Buchanan at Savannah High School Friday night.

It was the first meeting between the two schools in football since 1958, and the win gives Savannah its first 2-0 start since 2014 and breaks what was a nine-game win streak for East Buchanan dating back to last season.

"When you play the defending state champs and the No. 1 team in the state, they're that way for a reason," Savannah head coach Anthony Hays said. " Just happy our guys found a way to win. I don't think classification matters in this game. (East Buchanan) has a bunch of dudes. I think that's a quality win. I don't care if they're Class 1 or 6, that's a good football team."

East Buchanan won the toss and elected to receive, and after achieving one first down, the Bulldogs' drive stalled around midfield with a turnover on downs.

Savannah got the scoring started seven plays later with a 26-yard touchdown pass from senior quarterback Ethan Dudeck to fellow senior Alex Hopper, making it 7-0 Savages with 6:19 left in the first quarter.&nbsp;

Just three plays later, disaster struck for East Buchanan, as senior Truman Bodenhausen jumped a route, picked off Bulldogs' quarterback Gage Busby and went 36 yards the other way for a pick-six, putting the Savages up 14-0 in less than seven minutes.

"I was proud of how we started," Hays said. "I wanted our team to come out here and prove a point that Savannah is on the map and we want to go and play with a team like that. A team that is a top tier team. So, I was proud we had that mentality."

Busby threw two first quarter interceptions, but East Buchanan's defense came up with a stop after the second one, and the Bulldogs had the ball to start the second quarter.

East Buchanan then strung together an eight-play, 68-yard drive - capped off by a 20-yard touchdown run by junior running back Trevor Klein to get East Buchanan on the board and make it a 14-7 game with 9:07 left in the second quarter.

On Savannah's ensuing drive, the Savages kept the ball on the ground and were aided by a multitude of East Buchanan penalties. On the tenth rushing play of the drive, junior running back Cade Chappell found the end zone from three yards out to give Savannah a 21-7 lead with 3:49 left in the first half.

The Savages got the ball back again with 1:02 left in the second quarter, and got inside the East Buchanan 10-yard line, but settled for a 23-yard field goal from Dudeck to go up 24-7 at the break.

The East Buchanan defense came up with a big stop to start the second half, forcing Savannah into a three-and-out to open the third quarter.&nbsp;

It took the East Buchanan offense a little while to get going in the second half, as the Bulldogs took over on their own 34 with 2:02 left in the third quarter and still trailing 24-7.

Driving into Savannah territory, the Bulldogs put up the first points of the second half on the first play of the fourth quarter. Klein got a pitch from Busby, rolled right, took a hit as he threw and found senior Adam Stephen-Enges open in the end zone on a 30-yard touchdown pass.

The point-after try from Alec Hesson missed, but the score was now 24-13 Savannah with 11:52 remaining.

The Savannah offense had three total drives in the fourth quarter. They achieved only one first down, punted it twice and it turned it over on downs on one drive, giving East Buchanan life late.

The Bulldogs got to within one score with 2:26 left when Busby hit Carson White on a 36-yard touchdown pass. The ensuing two-point try failed, but thanks to a Savannah penalty on the Savages' next drive, and two remaining East Buchanan timeouts, the Bulldogs got the ball back on their own 19 with 1:46 left.

Two false start penalties backed them up inside their own 10, but a 21-yard completion to Stephen-Enges and a 23-yard catch by Klein got the Bulldogs moving, as they made it all the way to the Savannah 41 with less than 50 seconds left.

East Buchanan's fate was sealed, however, when Busby threw a deep ball over the middle, which was picked off by Savannah's Sawyer Sprague.

The Savages found a way, but Hays would like to see smoother finishes going forward.

"Obviously, a lot of things to fix down the stretch," he said. "We need to learn to finish if we want to be a team that makes a deep run this year. To see Sawyer make that play, I was very happy for him...there's a lot of things we need to do moving forward to be a better football team."

The Bulldogs finished with three turnovers and had 14 penalties for 105 yards, including six encroachment penalties on defense. Savannah was called on nine penalties for 85 yards, but remained turnover free.

Chappell led the Savages on the ground with 29 carries for 88 yards and a touchdown. Dudeck was 5-of-9 for 72 yards and a score. Hopper hauled in four passes for 44 yards and a touchdown.

Micah McFadden had a big night for Savannah defensively with a sack and an INT.

Klein finished with 227 all-purpose yards on offense for East Buchanan. He rushed for 132 yards and a touchdown on 24 carries. He had three catches for 65 yards and threw a 30-yard touchdown pass.

Busby finished 11-of-23 through the air for 171 yards, a touchdown and three interceptions. Stephen-Enges caught six passes for 90 yards and a score.

East Buchanan is home to North Platte next week, while Savannah heads to Kirksville.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662180366056.jpeg" alt="Ethan Dudeck (19) hands off to Cade Chappell (22) in the first half of Savannah's 24-19 win over East Buchanan Friday. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Ethan Dudeck (19) hands off to Cade Chappell (22) in the first half of Savannah's 24-19 win over East Buchanan Friday. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostSavannah built a 14-0 lead in the first seven minutes, led 24-7 at halftime and were then shut out in the second half, but held on for a 24-19 win over defending Class 1 state champion East Buchanan at Savannah High School Friday night.It was the first meeting between the two schools in football since 1958, and the win gives Savannah its first 2-0 start since 2014 and breaks what was a nine-game win streak for East Buchanan dating back to last season."When you play the defending state champs and the No. 1 team in the state, they're that way for a reason," Savannah head coach Anthony Hays said. " Just happy our guys found a way to win. I don't think classification matters in this game. (East Buchanan) has a bunch of dudes. I think that's a quality win. I don't care if they're Class 1 or 6, that's a good football team."East Buchanan won the toss and elected to receive, and after achieving one first down, the Bulldogs' drive stalled around midfield with a turnover on downs.Savannah got the scoring started seven plays later with a 26-yard touchdown pass from senior quarterback Ethan Dudeck to fellow senior Alex Hopper, making it 7-0 Savages with 6:19 left in the first quarter.&nbsp;Just three plays later, disaster struck for East Buchanan, as senior Truman Bodenhausen jumped a route, picked off Bulldogs' quarterback Gage Busby and went 36 yards the other way for a pick-six, putting the Savages up 14-0 in less than seven minutes."I was proud of how we started," Hays said. "I wanted our team to come out here and prove a point that Savannah is on the map and we want to go and play with a team like that. A team that is a top tier team. So, I was proud we had that mentality."Busby threw two first quarter interceptions, but East Buchanan's defense came up with a stop after the second one, and the Bulldogs had the ball to start the second quarter.East Buchanan then strung together an eight-play, 68-yard drive - capped off by a 20-yard touchdown run by junior running back Trevor Klein to get East Buchanan on the board and make it a 14-7 game with 9:07 left in the second quarter.On Savannah's ensuing drive, the Savages kept the ball on the ground and were aided by a multitude of East Buchanan penalties. On the tenth rushing play of the drive, junior running back Cade Chappell found the end zone from three yards out to give Savannah a 21-7 lead with 3:49 left in the first half.The Savages got the ball back again with 1:02 left in the second quarter, and got inside the East Buchanan 10-yard line, but settled for a 23-yard field goal from Dudeck to go up 24-7 at the break.The East Buchanan defense came up with a big stop to start the second half, forcing Savannah into a three-and-out to open the third quarter.&nbsp;It took the East Buchanan offense a little while to get going in the second half, as the Bulldogs took over on their own 34 with 2:02 left in the third quarter and still trailing 24-7.Driving into Savannah territory, the Bulldogs put up the first points of the second half on the first play of the fourth quarter. Klein got a pitch from Busby, rolled right, took a hit as he threw and found senior Adam Stephen-Enges open in the end zone on a 30-yard touchdown pass.The point-after try from Alec Hesson missed, but the score was now 24-13 Savannah with 11:52 remaining.The Savannah offense had three total drives in the fourth quarter. They achieved only one first down, punted it twice and it turned it over on downs on one drive, giving East Buchanan life late.The Bulldogs got to within one score with 2:26 left when Busby hit Carson White on a 36-yard touchdown pass. The ensuing two-point try failed, but thanks to a Savannah penalty on the Savages' next drive, and two remaining East Buchanan timeouts, the Bulldogs got the ball back on their own 19 with 1:46 left.Two false start penalties backed them up inside their own 10, but a 21-yard completion to Stephen-Enges and a 23-yard catch by Klein got the Bulldogs moving, as they made it all the way to the Savannah 41 with less than 50 seconds left.East Buchanan's fate was sealed, however, when Busby threw a deep ball over the middle, which was picked off by Savannah's Sawyer Sprague.The Savages found a way, but Hays would like to see smoother finishes going forward."Obviously, a lot of things to fix down the stretch," he said. "We need to learn to finish if we want to be a team that makes a deep run this year. To see Sawyer make that play, I was very happy for him...there's a lot of things we need to do moving forward to be a better football team."The Bulldogs finished with three turnovers and had 14 penalties for 105 yards, including six encroachment penalties on defense. Savannah was called on nine penalties for 85 yards, but remained turnover free.Chappell led the Savages on the ground with 29 carries for 88 yards and a touchdown. Dudeck was 5-of-9 for 72 yards and a score. Hopper hauled in four passes for 44 yards and a touchdown.Micah McFadden had a big night for Savannah defensively with a sack and an INT.Klein finished with 227 all-purpose yards on offense for East Buchanan. He rushed for 132 yards and a touchdown on 24 carries. He had three catches for 65 yards and threw a 30-yard touchdown pass.Busby finished 11-of-23 through the air for 171 yards, a touchdown and three interceptions. Stephen-Enges caught six passes for 90 yards and a score.East Buchanan is home to North Platte next week, while Savannah heads to Kirksville.<div><iframe src="https://anchor.fm/tommy-rezac/embed/episodes/Friday-Night-Lights---Anthony-Hays--Savannah-e1navtq" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>Full broadcast <div><iframe src="https://anchor.fm/tommy-rezac/embed/episodes/East-Buchanan--Savannah-football---9222-e1nb0eb" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662180434126.jpeg" alt="Gage Busby (3) goes back to throw." />
 <figcaption>Gage Busby (3) goes back to throw.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Savannah gets off to fast start, fends off late rally from East Buchanan

(AP) — Andrew Vaughn and A.J. Pollock each cracked a two-run homer and singled, and the Chicago White Sox topped the Kansas City Royals 7-1. 

Leury Garcia and Elvis Andrus each added two hits and an RBI and for the White Sox, who won their second straight following a five-game slide to climb back within a game of .500. 

Chicago improved to 2-1 under bench coach Miguel Cairo, serving in his third game as acting manager while Tony La Russa is on indefinite leave to undergo tests for an unspecified health issue. Johnny Cueto allowed one run on six hits in 5 1/3 innings, walking none and striking out five.

The Royals next take on the Tigers Friday evening with first pitch at 6:10 central. Coverage begins at 5:30 on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

(AP) — Andrew Vaughn and A.J. Pollock each cracked a two-run homer and singled, and the Chicago White Sox topped the Kansas City Royals 7-1. Leury Garcia and Elvis Andrus each added two hits and an RBI and for the White Sox, who won their second straight following a five-game slide to climb back within a game of .500. Chicago improved to 2-1 under bench coach Miguel Cairo, serving in his third game as acting manager while Tony La Russa is on indefinite leave to undergo tests for an unspecified health issue. Johnny Cueto allowed one run on six hits in 5 1/3 innings, walking none and striking out five.The Royals next take on the Tigers Friday evening with first pitch at 6:10 central. Coverage begins at 5:30 on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

Vaughn, Pollock homer, White Sox beat Royals 7-1

The Missouri Western football team opened its 2022 season with a statement win, shutting out Central Oklahoma 35-0 on Thursday night at Spratt Stadium.

It marks Missouri Western's first season opening win since 2016, its first shutout win since 2019 and its first season-opening shutout win since Sept. 8, 1979 - the first ever game at Spratt Stadium.

"Just a good overall team win," Missouri Western head coach Matt Williamson said. "Good to be back at the Spratt. Our kids played a really solid game, but a lot of corrections we still have to make."

The Griffon defense forced a three-and-out on UCO's first possession, and the Missouri Western offense proceeded to score touchdowns on each of their first two possessions.

Starting quarterback Reagan Jones led a 10 play, 76-yard drive and got the scoring started with a four-yard touchdown run to put the Griffons up 7-0 with 9:13 left in the first quarter. Missouri Western got the ball back with 2:52 left in the first quarter, and a quick three-play drive ended with Jones finding sophomore tight end&nbsp;Tycen Gray on an eight-yard touchdown pass, putting the Griffons up 14-0 at the end of the first quarter.

Missouri Western had a few promising drives in the second quarter, but one ended with an interception and another ended with Jones getting sacked on 3rd and goal at the one-yard line, which ended the first half.

The Griffons got the ball to start the second half, and milked seven minutes of clock on a 13-play, 75-yard drive that ended with a two-yard rushing touchdown from Jones, making the score 21-0 Missouri Western with 7:58 left in the third quarter.

"That was nice for us," Jones said of the long drive to open the second half. "I think we'll be good at managing the clock all year. I think big, long drives are what we want to do and what we want to keep doing all year, and I'm excited to be at the helm of it this year."

&nbsp;Jones went 20-for-27 through the air for 171 yards, one touchdown and an INT, while adding 111 yards and two scores on the ground.

"I had a few mental mistakes here and there," Jones said. "But, I think managing the clock is a big thing I need to do next week and not try to get down so low in the play clock."

Central Oklahoma had 11 total possessions. Eight ended in punt, three in three-and-out and three more with turnover on downs. Missouri Western outgained the Bronchos in total yards 506-157, including 335-65 on the ground.

"I'm proud of our team," Williamson said. "Proud of our coaching staff. It was a great way to start. A great crowd and a bunch of great support. It was fun."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662097750624.jpeg" alt="Missouri Western defensive coordinator (center, white shirt) rings the bell after the Griffons' 35-0 win over Central Oklahoma at Spratt Stadium in St. Joseph Thursday. Photo by Arianne Boma." />
 <figcaption>Missouri Western defensive coordinator (center, white shirt) rings the bell after the Griffons' 35-0 win over Central Oklahoma at Spratt Stadium in St. Joseph Thursday. Photo by Arianne Boma.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe Missouri Western football team opened its 2022 season with a statement win, shutting out Central Oklahoma 35-0 on Thursday night at Spratt Stadium.It marks Missouri Western's first season opening win since 2016, its first shutout win since 2019 and its first season-opening shutout win since Sept. 8, 1979 - the first ever game at Spratt Stadium."Just a good overall team win," Missouri Western head coach Matt Williamson said. "Good to be back at the Spratt. Our kids played a really solid game, but a lot of corrections we still have to make."The Griffon defense forced a three-and-out on UCO's first possession, and the Missouri Western offense proceeded to score touchdowns on each of their first two possessions.Starting quarterback Reagan Jones led a 10 play, 76-yard drive and got the scoring started with a four-yard touchdown run to put the Griffons up 7-0 with 9:13 left in the first quarter. Missouri Western got the ball back with 2:52 left in the first quarter, and a quick three-play drive ended with Jones finding sophomore tight end&nbsp;Tycen Gray on an eight-yard touchdown pass, putting the Griffons up 14-0 at the end of the first quarter.Missouri Western had a few promising drives in the second quarter, but one ended with an interception and another ended with Jones getting sacked on 3rd and goal at the one-yard line, which ended the first half.The Griffons got the ball to start the second half, and milked seven minutes of clock on a 13-play, 75-yard drive that ended with a two-yard rushing touchdown from Jones, making the score 21-0 Missouri Western with 7:58 left in the third quarter."That was nice for us," Jones said of the long drive to open the second half. "I think we'll be good at managing the clock all year. I think big, long drives are what we want to do and what we want to keep doing all year, and I'm excited to be at the helm of it this year."&nbsp;Jones went 20-for-27 through the air for 171 yards, one touchdown and an INT, while adding 111 yards and two scores on the ground."I had a few mental mistakes here and there," Jones said. "But, I think managing the clock is a big thing I need to do next week and not try to get down so low in the play clock."Central Oklahoma had 11 total possessions. Eight ended in punt, three in three-and-out and three more with turnover on downs. Missouri Western outgained the Bronchos in total yards 506-157, including 335-65 on the ground."I'm proud of our team," Williamson said. "Proud of our coaching staff. It was a great way to start. A great crowd and a bunch of great support. It was fun."Leading 21-0 with 7:28 left in the game, Missouri Western got the ball back and kept it on the ground. Sophomore running back Brandon Hall, last season's MIAA Freshman of the Year, had been fighting hard for every yard he got Thursday, but he finally broke a big, 53-yard touchdown run with 4:28 left in the game.Hall finished with a career-high 30 carries, a career-high 141 rushing yards and the score.The Griffons got one more possession after a UCO turnover on downs, and would score in just three plays with the second-team offense on the field. Senior running back Titus McCoy, who missed all of last year with injury, scored on a 14-yard touchdown run with 1:51 left - his first touchdown as a Griffon.Missouri Western goes on the road Thursday, September 8 to face Fort Hays State. Kickoff from Lewis Field Stadium is set for 7 p.m. Pregame coverage starts at 6 on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3).Fort Hays State lost at Northwest Missouri State Thursday 33-19.<div><iframe src="https://anchor.fm/tommy-rezac/embed/episodes/MWSU-vs--UCO-postgame---Reagan-Jones-e1n9k31" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div><div><iframe src="https://anchor.fm/tommy-rezac/embed/episodes/Missouri-Western-vs--UCO-postgame---Matt-Williamson-e1n9k04" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div><div><iframe src="https://anchor.fm/tommy-rezac/embed/episodes/Missouri-Western-vs--Central-Oklahoma-football---radio-highlights-e1n9jti" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.