The Savannah volleyball team rallied after getting dominated in the first set, but the Savages got off to a slow start in the fifth set and No. 1 seed Smithville (26-5-5) topped Savannah 3-2 in the Class 4 District 16 championship at Benton High School Tuesday.

Obviously not the desired outcome for No. 2 seed Savannah, but the Savages can look back on this season with their heads held high, getting the most wins in a single season since 2015.

"It's awesome that they stuck around," said first-year Savannah head coach Marina Atkins said. "Everyone bought in and this is what happened. So, it's a huge accomplishment. Tough loss, it is a tough loss, but I couldn't have done it without our four seniors. They led well, and they worked well together as a team, and they set that tone for the program."

Smithville, which won its first district title in volleyball since 2018, raced out to a 6-1 start in the first set, and never trailed, winning 25-15 to lead off.

Savannah (22-11-2) returned the favor in the second set, getting off to a 6-1 start themselves and weathering a late run from the Warriors to take the second 25-21.

The third set was back and forth throughout, but it was Smithville that went on a 4-0 run to end the set, breaking a 21-21 tie to win the third, 25-21.

Once again, the Savages hit back. Savannah took a 19-12 lead in the fourth, thanks to a 7-0 run, and they tied the match 2-2 with a 25-17 victory.

Smithville set the tone right away in the fifth, jumping out to a 6-2 lead.&nbsp; Savannah narrowed the gap, trailing 8-7 and forcing a Warriors timeout, but that's as close as the Savages would come in the fifth, as Smithville closed it out 15-9.

"Honestly, we kind of got stuck in a hole," Atkins said of the final set. "Then, we couldn't quite get out of it. But, the girls worked hard. We did. We battled back, we worked hard. It's just...sometimes you get stuck in a hole and a little rut and it's hard to get out of that. As young players, that's just something that comes with experience."

Sophomore outside hitter Rhyan Schrick led the Savages with 11 kills, while senior outside hitter Alexcia Jones finished an outstanding season with 10 kills.

Sophomore Addy Minton came off the bench and had a solid match, finishing with nine kills. Junior Sailor Bodenhausen finished with seven kills and two blocks.

Senior middle Isabella Reynolds was at times dominant for Smithville, knocking down a match-high 16 kills while also getting six blocks.

The Warriors came up with 12 blocks compared to Savannah's five. Smithville also had seven ace serves compared to just two by the Savages.

Again, not the desired outcome, but after getting swept by Smithville to open the season on August 30, Coach Atkins was happy to give one of the best teams in Class 4 a run for their money in the district title.

"They come out here and at least make them work for this, I couldn't have asked for a better type of loss," Atkins said. "Rather than coming out and just handing it to them. They had to at least work for it."

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1635305029531.jpeg" alt="Savannah's Sailor Bodenhausen (10) tries to lob a ball over Smithville blockers in Tuesday's Class 4 District 16 title at Benton High School. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Savannah's Sailor Bodenhausen (10) tries to lob a ball over Smithville blockers in Tuesday's Class 4 District 16 title at Benton High School. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe Savannah volleyball team rallied after getting dominated in the first set, but the Savages got off to a slow start in the fifth set and No. 1 seed Smithville (26-5-5) topped Savannah 3-2 in the Class 4 District 16 championship at Benton High School Tuesday.Obviously not the desired outcome for No. 2 seed Savannah, but the Savages can look back on this season with their heads held high, getting the most wins in a single season since 2015."It's awesome that they stuck around," said first-year Savannah head coach Marina Atkins said. "Everyone bought in and this is what happened. So, it's a huge accomplishment. Tough loss, it is a tough loss, but I couldn't have done it without our four seniors. They led well, and they worked well together as a team, and they set that tone for the program."Smithville, which won its first district title in volleyball since 2018, raced out to a 6-1 start in the first set, and never trailed, winning 25-15 to lead off.Savannah (22-11-2) returned the favor in the second set, getting off to a 6-1 start themselves and weathering a late run from the Warriors to take the second 25-21.The third set was back and forth throughout, but it was Smithville that went on a 4-0 run to end the set, breaking a 21-21 tie to win the third, 25-21.Once again, the Savages hit back. Savannah took a 19-12 lead in the fourth, thanks to a 7-0 run, and they tied the match 2-2 with a 25-17 victory.Smithville set the tone right away in the fifth, jumping out to a 6-2 lead.&nbsp; Savannah narrowed the gap, trailing 8-7 and forcing a Warriors timeout, but that's as close as the Savages would come in the fifth, as Smithville closed it out 15-9."Honestly, we kind of got stuck in a hole," Atkins said of the final set. "Then, we couldn't quite get out of it. But, the girls worked hard. We did. We battled back, we worked hard. It's just...sometimes you get stuck in a hole and a little rut and it's hard to get out of that. As young players, that's just something that comes with experience."Sophomore outside hitter Rhyan Schrick led the Savages with 11 kills, while senior outside hitter Alexcia Jones finished an outstanding season with 10 kills.Sophomore Addy Minton came off the bench and had a solid match, finishing with nine kills. Junior Sailor Bodenhausen finished with seven kills and two blocks.Senior middle Isabella Reynolds was at times dominant for Smithville, knocking down a match-high 16 kills while also getting six blocks.The Warriors came up with 12 blocks compared to Savannah's five. Smithville also had seven ace serves compared to just two by the Savages.Again, not the desired outcome, but after getting swept by Smithville to open the season on August 30, Coach Atkins was happy to give one of the best teams in Class 4 a run for their money in the district title."They come out here and at least make them work for this, I couldn't have asked for a better type of loss," Atkins said. "Rather than coming out and just handing it to them. They had to at least work for it."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1635305154564.jpeg" alt="Rhyan Schrick serves the ball." />
 <figcaption>Rhyan Schrick serves the ball.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1635305224348.jpeg" alt="Senior Ella Jordan (15) sets the ball in Tuesday's match." />
 <figcaption>Senior Ella Jordan (15) sets the ball in Tuesday's match.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Savannah battles hard, falls short against No. 1 seed Smithville in district title Tuesday

The No. 1 seed Smithville outlasted Benton in a physical, four-set match, while No. 2 seed Savannah capitalized on a fast start to beat No.&nbsp; 3 seed Lafayette, 3-1, on Monday night in the Class 4 District 16 semifinals at Benton High School.

Smithville 3-1 (25-20, 22-25, 25-20, 25-22)

The Warriors (25-5-5) were in a close battle with host school and No. 4 seed Benton throughout. The Cardinals (16-15-1) were able to take the second set, but never had a lead in the third.

The fourth set was up for grabs down the stretch, but Smithville was able to score the final couple of points to survive and advance to the district championship on Tuesday night at 6.

Smithville's Rylee Thompson led the way with 10 kills, but Benton senior Alyia Stillman, who just last week reached 1,000 career kills herself, finished with a match-high 17 kills, six aces and two blocks.

Fellow Benton senior Gabrielle Moulden had 11 kills and a pair of blocks. Sophomore Hollie Peters had nine kills.

Savannah 3-1 (25-14, 25-12, 23-25, 25-16)

The Savages (22-10-2) cruised through the first two sets, getting off to a 12-3 start in the first and a 12-1 start in the second.

Lafayette (15-19) flipped the script in the third, getting out to a 13-6 start themselves and hanging on for a narrow victory to avoid being swept.

The fourth set started out 5-5, but a 7-0 run propelled Savannah to a nice lead halfway through, and the Savages were able to hold the Irish down the rest of the way to punch their ticket into Tuesday's district title.

"Third set, I think we just got comfortable and played safe," Savannah head coach Marina Atkins said. "There toward the end, they flipped a switch and the girls were like, 'Yeah we've had enough.' So, then we took that energy from the third into the fourth."

Senior Alexcia Jones led Savannah with 11 kills, while junior Sailor Bodenhausen had eight. Sophomore Rhyan Shrick was right behind with seven kills of her own.

"It helps that our offense is pretty even," Atkins said. "I mean, we do have a couple of hitters who we trust to put the ball away at times. But, overall, we have front row players who can put the ball away and even backrow players that we can set, so they can just put it over."

Junior Bailey Flanagan led Lafayette with 11 kills.

Savannah, seeking its first district title in volleyball since 2015, will face Smithville in the Class 4 District 16 championship on Tuesday night at 6 at Benton High School.

The Warriors beat Savannah 3-0 back on August 30 - the first match of the season for both teams.

"They were our first game of the season," Atkins recalled. "So, we're coming out hungry and we're ready to play them. We're ready to win."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1635221801639.jpeg" alt="Savannah's Rhyan Schrick (top) sets a ball during the Savage's 3-1 win over Lafayette on Monday in a Class 4 District 16 semifinal. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Savannah's Rhyan Schrick (top) sets a ball during the Savage's 3-1 win over Lafayette on Monday in a Class 4 District 16 semifinal. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe No. 1 seed Smithville outlasted Benton in a physical, four-set match, while No. 2 seed Savannah capitalized on a fast start to beat No.&nbsp; 3 seed Lafayette, 3-1, on Monday night in the Class 4 District 16 semifinals at Benton High School.Smithville 3-1 (25-20, 22-25, 25-20, 25-22)The Warriors (25-5-5) were in a close battle with host school and No. 4 seed Benton throughout. The Cardinals (16-15-1) were able to take the second set, but never had a lead in the third.The fourth set was up for grabs down the stretch, but Smithville was able to score the final couple of points to survive and advance to the district championship on Tuesday night at 6.Smithville's Rylee Thompson led the way with 10 kills, but Benton senior Alyia Stillman, who just last week reached 1,000 career kills herself, finished with a match-high 17 kills, six aces and two blocks.Fellow Benton senior Gabrielle Moulden had 11 kills and a pair of blocks. Sophomore Hollie Peters had nine kills.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1635221915571.jpeg" alt="Benton's Alyia Stillman (4) serves while head coach Lauryn Doolan looks on during Monday's match. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Benton's Alyia Stillman (4) serves while head coach Lauryn Doolan looks on during Monday's match. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>Savannah 3-1 (25-14, 25-12, 23-25, 25-16)The Savages (22-10-2) cruised through the first two sets, getting off to a 12-3 start in the first and a 12-1 start in the second.Lafayette (15-19) flipped the script in the third, getting out to a 13-6 start themselves and hanging on for a narrow victory to avoid being swept.The fourth set started out 5-5, but a 7-0 run propelled Savannah to a nice lead halfway through, and the Savages were able to hold the Irish down the rest of the way to punch their ticket into Tuesday's district title."Third set, I think we just got comfortable and played safe," Savannah head coach Marina Atkins said. "There toward the end, they flipped a switch and the girls were like, 'Yeah we've had enough.' So, then we took that energy from the third into the fourth."Senior Alexcia Jones led Savannah with 11 kills, while junior Sailor Bodenhausen had eight. Sophomore Rhyan Shrick was right behind with seven kills of her own."It helps that our offense is pretty even," Atkins said. "I mean, we do have a couple of hitters who we trust to put the ball away at times. But, overall, we have front row players who can put the ball away and even backrow players that we can set, so they can just put it over."Junior Bailey Flanagan led Lafayette with 11 kills.Savannah, seeking its first district title in volleyball since 2015, will face Smithville in the Class 4 District 16 championship on Tuesday night at 6 at Benton High School.The Warriors beat Savannah 3-0 back on August 30 - the first match of the season for both teams."They were our first game of the season," Atkins recalled. "So, we're coming out hungry and we're ready to play them. We're ready to win."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1635221958510.jpeg" alt="Savannah's Alexcia Jones prepares to serve." />
 <figcaption>Savannah's Alexcia Jones prepares to serve.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Smithville outlasts Benton, Savannah beats Lafayette in district semis

(AP) -&nbsp;Ryan Tannehill threw for 270 yards and a touchdown, and he also ran for a score, as the Tennessee Titans routed the Kansas City Chiefs 27-3 Sunday for their fifth win in six games.

This also was the second victory in six days for the Titans over teams that played for the AFC championship in January. They edged Buffalo 34-31 on Monday night.

The Titans (5-2) followed that by simply dominating the two-time defending AFC champions. Tennessee jumped out to a 27-0 halftime lead, and never looked back.

"They made more plays than we did," Chiefs head coach Andy Reid said after. "Particularly, the first few series there. I've seen our guys do it and make the plays. We're just not doing it now. But, I trust those things will get taken care of on both sides of the ball, and special teams."

The Chiefs (3-4) now have lost two of three and dropped to 1-4 in the AFC this season.

Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes takes the blame for his two turnovers Sunday, saying he's trying too hard to make something happen.

"Today, it was probably me just pressing a little bit too early in the game," Mahomes said. "Then, we got down and then we're in that kind of mode where we're kind of no huddle. Which, you don't want to be in in the NFL. You can execute a little bit, but it's hard to sustain drives. So, I have to be better early in games so we don't get behind like we did."

Either way, Kansas City is left with a big turnover problem.

The Chiefs turned the ball over three times Sunday. The Titans turned a Mahomes interception and Mahomes fumble into 10 points late in the first half.

Kansas City has one more turnover already this season than the 16 giveaways in all of 2020. Mahomes has also been intercepted in six straight games - the longest stretch in his career.

"I trust the players, the locker room and the coaches," Reid said. "We have to make sure we hang together and fix the problems. The easy way out is not doing that. We need to hang together."

The Chiefs are back home to host the New York Giants (2-5) on Monday night football next week. Kick off is set for 7:15 central. The game will be carried on KFEQ Radio (680 AM,, 95.3 FM) and Q Country 92.7 FM in St. Joseph.

The Giants topped Carolina, 25-3, on Sunday.

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph Post(AP) -&nbsp;Ryan Tannehill threw for 270 yards and a touchdown, and he also ran for a score, as the Tennessee Titans routed the Kansas City Chiefs 27-3 Sunday for their fifth win in six games.This also was the second victory in six days for the Titans over teams that played for the AFC championship in January. They edged Buffalo 34-31 on Monday night.The Titans (5-2) followed that by simply dominating the two-time defending AFC champions. Tennessee jumped out to a 27-0 halftime lead, and never looked back."They made more plays than we did," Chiefs head coach Andy Reid said after. "Particularly, the first few series there. I've seen our guys do it and make the plays. We're just not doing it now. But, I trust those things will get taken care of on both sides of the ball, and special teams."The Chiefs (3-4) now have lost two of three and dropped to 1-4 in the AFC this season.Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes takes the blame for his two turnovers Sunday, saying he's trying too hard to make something happen."Today, it was probably me just pressing a little bit too early in the game," Mahomes said. "Then, we got down and then we're in that kind of mode where we're kind of no huddle. Which, you don't want to be in in the NFL. You can execute a little bit, but it's hard to sustain drives. So, I have to be better early in games so we don't get behind like we did."Either way, Kansas City is left with a big turnover problem.The Chiefs turned the ball over three times Sunday. The Titans turned a Mahomes interception and Mahomes fumble into 10 points late in the first half.Kansas City has one more turnover already this season than the 16 giveaways in all of 2020. Mahomes has also been intercepted in six straight games - the longest stretch in his career."I trust the players, the locker room and the coaches," Reid said. "We have to make sure we hang together and fix the problems. The easy way out is not doing that. We need to hang together."The Chiefs are back home to host the New York Giants (2-5) on Monday night football next week. Kick off is set for 7:15 central. The game will be carried on KFEQ Radio (680 AM,, 95.3 FM) and Q Country 92.7 FM in St. Joseph.The Giants topped Carolina, 25-3, on Sunday.

Titans build big lead early, dominate Chiefs Sunday

Pittsburg State took the opening kickoff back 98 yards for a touchdown and scored 17 points in the second quarter to build a 24-0 halftime lead and eventually beat Missouri Western 34-14 at Spratt Stadium Saturday.

After falling behind 7-0 in the first 13 seconds of the game, Missouri Western (3-5) strung together three consecutive drives of eight plays or more in the first half.

The Griffons got into Pitt State territory on all three of those drives. Yet, Missouri Western had to punt it away on each of those drives. Pitt State's offense then came alive, scoring on three straight drives to go up 24-0 late in the second quarter.

"It's like a trend right now," Missouri Western head football coach Matt Williamson said. "We're coming out and flatlining in the first half. Very stagnant offensively. Not doing much at all. It's disheartening quite a bit. It's tough to see."

Missouri Western got the ball to start the second half, but had to punt it away for a sixth straight possession.

Pitt State scored a field goal on their first drive of the second half to go up 27-0 with 9:28 to go in the third.

After that, Missouri Western made a change at quarterback, putting in backup Reagan Jones in place of Anthony Vespo, and Jones helped engineer a 10-play, 75-yard scoring drive that ended with a one-yard touchdown run from Shen Butler-Lawson, Jr., making it a 27-7 ballgame with 4:48 remaining in the third.

Pittsburg State strung together another long drive of their own after that, scoring on the second play of the fourth quarter to go up 34-7 with 14:51 to play.&nbsp;

The Gorillas had a streak of five consecutive scoring drives, spanning from the second to the fourth quarter. Three of those drives ended in touchdown, and two in field goal.

Pitt State quarterback Mak Sexton was efficient throughout, completing 19-of-29 passes for 224 yards and two touchdowns. Running back Tyler Adkins ran hard throughout the game, finishing with 85 yards on 15 carries and a touchdown.

The Griffons were able to finally hit back offensively in the fourth quarter. After a solid kick return by Trey Vaval set Missouri Western up at midfield, Jones found receiver Cooper Burton on a 34-yard catch, eventually setting up an eight-yard touchdown run by Jones. The point-after made the score 34-14 with 12:44 to play.

Jones finished the game 7-of-11 through the air for 142 yards passing, while also rushing for 77 yards on eight carries and the touchdown, giving him 219 all-purpose yards.

Burton finished with six catches for a season-high 135 yards receiving.

"You've got a kid that comes in who starts playing really well in the second half and sparks (the offense) and gets things going," Williamson said of Jones. "Maybe we'll look at that, I don't know. We have to get all of our playmakers the ball."

Missouri Western's defense got a quick, and much needed three-and-out, giving the Griffons the ball back down three scores with still 10:58 to go.

For a third straight drive, the Griffons found rhythm on offense. A 36-yard completion to Burton, followed by a 12-yard rush by Brandon Hall, gave Missouri Western first-and-goal at the 9.

The Griffons got to the six, and on 4th down, Jones threw across his body to the back of the end zone looking for Burton, but the pass was off target, and Pittsburg State took over on downs at their own six with 8:44 to go.

The Gorillas were able to run six minutes off the clock, before attempting a 31-yard field goal with 2:12 to go. The field goal attempt was blocked by Sam Webb, and the loose ball was recovered by Tariq Stewart.

With just under two minutes left, Jones got the Griffons into Pitt State territory again, but an interception in the end zone with under a minute left ended the game.

Missouri Western goes back on the road Saturday to face Missouri Southern (3-5). The Lions lost at Emporia State 24-21 on Saturday.

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostPittsburg State took the opening kickoff back 98 yards for a touchdown and scored 17 points in the second quarter to build a 24-0 halftime lead and eventually beat Missouri Western 34-14 at Spratt Stadium Saturday.After falling behind 7-0 in the first 13 seconds of the game, Missouri Western (3-5) strung together three consecutive drives of eight plays or more in the first half.The Griffons got into Pitt State territory on all three of those drives. Yet, Missouri Western had to punt it away on each of those drives. Pitt State's offense then came alive, scoring on three straight drives to go up 24-0 late in the second quarter."It's like a trend right now," Missouri Western head football coach Matt Williamson said. "We're coming out and flatlining in the first half. Very stagnant offensively. Not doing much at all. It's disheartening quite a bit. It's tough to see."Missouri Western got the ball to start the second half, but had to punt it away for a sixth straight possession.Pitt State scored a field goal on their first drive of the second half to go up 27-0 with 9:28 to go in the third.After that, Missouri Western made a change at quarterback, putting in backup Reagan Jones in place of Anthony Vespo, and Jones helped engineer a 10-play, 75-yard scoring drive that ended with a one-yard touchdown run from Shen Butler-Lawson, Jr., making it a 27-7 ballgame with 4:48 remaining in the third.Pittsburg State strung together another long drive of their own after that, scoring on the second play of the fourth quarter to go up 34-7 with 14:51 to play.&nbsp;The Gorillas had a streak of five consecutive scoring drives, spanning from the second to the fourth quarter. Three of those drives ended in touchdown, and two in field goal.Pitt State quarterback Mak Sexton was efficient throughout, completing 19-of-29 passes for 224 yards and two touchdowns. Running back Tyler Adkins ran hard throughout the game, finishing with 85 yards on 15 carries and a touchdown.The Griffons were able to finally hit back offensively in the fourth quarter. After a solid kick return by Trey Vaval set Missouri Western up at midfield, Jones found receiver Cooper Burton on a 34-yard catch, eventually setting up an eight-yard touchdown run by Jones. The point-after made the score 34-14 with 12:44 to play.Jones finished the game 7-of-11 through the air for 142 yards passing, while also rushing for 77 yards on eight carries and the touchdown, giving him 219 all-purpose yards.Burton finished with six catches for a season-high 135 yards receiving."You've got a kid that comes in who starts playing really well in the second half and sparks (the offense) and gets things going," Williamson said of Jones. "Maybe we'll look at that, I don't know. We have to get all of our playmakers the ball."Missouri Western's defense got a quick, and much needed three-and-out, giving the Griffons the ball back down three scores with still 10:58 to go.For a third straight drive, the Griffons found rhythm on offense. A 36-yard completion to Burton, followed by a 12-yard rush by Brandon Hall, gave Missouri Western first-and-goal at the 9.The Griffons got to the six, and on 4th down, Jones threw across his body to the back of the end zone looking for Burton, but the pass was off target, and Pittsburg State took over on downs at their own six with 8:44 to go.The Gorillas were able to run six minutes off the clock, before attempting a 31-yard field goal with 2:12 to go. The field goal attempt was blocked by Sam Webb, and the loose ball was recovered by Tariq Stewart.With just under two minutes left, Jones got the Griffons into Pitt State territory again, but an interception in the end zone with under a minute left ended the game.Missouri Western goes back on the road Saturday to face Missouri Southern (3-5). The Lions lost at Emporia State 24-21 on Saturday.<div><iframe src="https://anchor.fm/tommy-rezac/embed/episodes/Missouri-Westerns-Matt-Williamson-postgame-e197iqo" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Pittsburg State uses big second quarter, gets key stop late in win over Griffons Saturday

We have reached the end of the regular season in high school football with week 9 in Missouri and week 8 in Kansas. Here's a look at all of the area matchups and finals from Friday night. We now await district pairings!&nbsp;

MEC: Chillicothe 50 (6-3)&nbsp;Benton 21 (1-8) - FINAL

#4 St. Pius X 35 (8-1)&nbsp;Savannah 0 (3-6) - FINAL

Marshall 30 (2-6) Cameron 0 (2-7) - FINAL

Maryville 37 (5-4)&nbsp;Lafayette 6 (6-3) - FINAL

#8 Bishop LeBlond 32 (8-1) Northwest (Hughesville) 30 (5-4) - FINAL - Eagles overcome a 22-6 halftime deficit.

KCI: #2 Mid-Buchanan 28 (9-0) #8 West Platte 12 (7-2) - FINAL - The Dragons win back-to-back KCI Conference titles and finish with back-to-back undefeated regular seasons.

Lathrop 51 (3-6)&nbsp;Plattsburg 7 (1-8) - FINAL - Third straight win for the Mules, and they win the 100th meeting with Plattsburg.

#5 East Buchanan 57 (8-1) North Platte 8 (0-9) - FINAL

GRC Albany 84 (4-5)&nbsp;Pattonsburg 0 (3-6) - FINAL

North Andrew 68 (4-4) @ Southwest Livingston 20 (3-6) - FINAL

#6 King City 48 (7-2) St. Joseph Christian 0 (0-9) - FINAL

#1 Worth County 76 (9-0)&nbsp;#5 Stanberry 16 (5-3) - FINAL

Milan 28 (5-4)&nbsp;Maysville 12 (3-6) - FINAL

Gallatin 48 (7-2) Princeton 8 (0-9) - FINAL - Bulldogs win their fifth straight.

Putnam County 20 (3-6)&nbsp;Polo 16 (6-3) - FINAL

South Harrison 25 (5-4)&nbsp;Trenton 24 (4-5) - FINAL OT

275 DeKalb 52 (1-8)&nbsp;Stewartsville-Osborn 38 (1-7) - FINAL

#9 South Holt 22 (7-2) Nodaway Valley 6 (2-7) - FINAL - The Knights get their sixth straight win.

Rock Port 26 (6-3)&nbsp;Mound City 20 (4-5) - FINAL - Micah Makings had a two-yard winning TD with two seconds left.

Platte Valley 28 (7-2)&nbsp;#3 East Atchison 26 (8-1) - FINAL

Greater KC Suburban Conference #7 Park Hill South 51 (9-0) St. Joseph Central 27 (1-8) - FINAL (Thursday)

#4 Platte County 39 (7-2)&nbsp;Lansing, KS 3 (2-6) - FINAL

Kansas games: Atchison 21 (7-1) Washington 20 (3-4) - FINAL

Troy 40 (4-4)&nbsp;Horton 12 (0-8) - FINAL

Burlingame 36 (5-2)&nbsp;Doniphan West 28 (3-5) - FINAL OT

Maur Hill-Prep Mount Academy 24 (3-4)&nbsp;Riverside 21 (0-8) - FINAL

More scores<a href="https://www.680kfeq.com/scoreboard/">&nbsp;can be found here</a>.

Tune into KFEQ again tonight for this season's final episode of 'Friday Night Lights' from 8-10 p.m.! We'll have two hours of scores, interviews, analysis and more! Listen on 680 AM, 95.3 FM, 680kfeq.com and the KFEQ mobile app.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634935278702.jpeg" alt="Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostWe have reached the end of the regular season in high school football with week 9 in Missouri and week 8 in Kansas. Here's a look at all of the area matchups and finals from Friday night. We now await district pairings!&nbsp; MEC: Chillicothe 50 (6-3)&nbsp;Benton 21 (1-8) - FINAL#4 St. Pius X 35 (8-1)&nbsp;Savannah 0 (3-6) - FINALMarshall 30 (2-6) Cameron 0 (2-7) - FINALMaryville 37 (5-4)&nbsp;Lafayette 6 (6-3) - FINAL#8 Bishop LeBlond 32 (8-1) Northwest (Hughesville) 30 (5-4) - FINAL - Eagles overcome a 22-6 halftime deficit.<div><iframe src="https://anchor.fm/tommy-rezac/embed/episodes/LeBlond-head-football-coach-Chuck-Davis-e196fgr" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>KCI: #2 Mid-Buchanan 28 (9-0) #8 West Platte 12 (7-2) - FINAL - The Dragons win back-to-back KCI Conference titles and finish with back-to-back undefeated regular seasons.<div><iframe src="https://anchor.fm/tommy-rezac/embed/episodes/Mid-Buchanan-coach-Aaron-Fritz-e196f9t" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>Lathrop 51 (3-6)&nbsp;Plattsburg 7 (1-8) - FINAL - Third straight win for the Mules, and they win the 100th meeting with Plattsburg.#5 East Buchanan 57 (8-1) North Platte 8 (0-9) - FINAL<div><iframe src="https://anchor.fm/tommy-rezac/embed/episodes/East-Buchanan-coach-Dan-Ritter-e196fd2" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>Hamilton 41 (6-3) Lawson 0 (2-7) - FINAL<div><iframe src="https://anchor.fm/tommy-rezac/embed/episodes/Hamilton-head-coach-Alexander-Lloyd-e196fet" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>GRC Albany 84 (4-5)&nbsp;Pattonsburg 0 (3-6) - FINALNorth Andrew 68 (4-4) @ Southwest Livingston 20 (3-6) - FINAL#6 King City 48 (7-2) St. Joseph Christian 0 (0-9) - FINAL#1 Worth County 76 (9-0)&nbsp;#5 Stanberry 16 (5-3) - FINALMilan 28 (5-4)&nbsp;Maysville 12 (3-6) - FINALGallatin 48 (7-2) Princeton 8 (0-9) - FINAL - Bulldogs win their fifth straight.Putnam County 20 (3-6)&nbsp;Polo 16 (6-3) - FINALSouth Harrison 25 (5-4)&nbsp;Trenton 24 (4-5) - FINAL OT275 DeKalb 52 (1-8)&nbsp;Stewartsville-Osborn 38 (1-7) - FINAL<div><iframe src="https://anchor.fm/tommy-rezac/embed/episodes/DeKalb-head-coach-Kaleb-Wardlow-e196fii" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>#9 South Holt 22 (7-2) Nodaway Valley 6 (2-7) - FINAL - The Knights get their sixth straight win.<div><iframe src="https://anchor.fm/tommy-rezac/embed/episodes/South-Holt-head-coach-Josh-Petersen-e196fk8" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>Rock Port 26 (6-3)&nbsp;Mound City 20 (4-5) - FINAL - Micah Makings had a two-yard winning TD with two seconds left.Platte Valley 28 (7-2)&nbsp;#3 East Atchison 26 (8-1) - FINALGreater KC Suburban Conference #7 Park Hill South 51 (9-0) St. Joseph Central 27 (1-8) - FINAL (Thursday)#4 Platte County 39 (7-2)&nbsp;Lansing, KS 3 (2-6) - FINALKansas games: Atchison 21 (7-1) Washington 20 (3-4) - FINALTroy 40 (4-4)&nbsp;Horton 12 (0-8) - FINALBurlingame 36 (5-2)&nbsp;Doniphan West 28 (3-5) - FINAL OTMaur Hill-Prep Mount Academy 24 (3-4)&nbsp;Riverside 21 (0-8) - FINALHiawatha (4-3) @ Sabetha (3-4) - missingMore scores<a href="https://www.680kfeq.com/scoreboard/">&nbsp;can be found here</a>.Tune into KFEQ again tonight for this season's final episode of 'Friday Night Lights' from 8-10 p.m.! We'll have two hours of scores, interviews, analysis and more! Listen on 680 AM, 95.3 FM, 680kfeq.com and the KFEQ mobile app.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630711670029.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

KFEQ/St. Joseph Post area football matchups and scoreboard - October 22, 2021

Bishop LeBlond had a historic run in girls' tennis in 2020, qualifying as a team for state and finishing in the top four for the first time since 2009.

With a healthy crop of returning talent, along with two new freshmen, the Eagles (12-3) felt confident they could do it again. Lo and behold, LeBlond is headed back to Springfield for the team semifinals.

"It really means a lot," said senior Lily Sullivan. "We've put a lot of work into this year and this season to push and win every match like every match counted. So, we really deserve to be here and I think we can pull through."

LeBlond won their <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/d713746e-4cc9-4421-91cb-0129e6883316">second straight district title on October 6</a>, defeating Savannah 5-0.

They went onto beat Marshall in sectionals, 5-3, and then Harrisonville, 5-0, in quarterfinals on Oct. 12, putting them in the Final Four for a second consecutive season, and for the first time under new head coach Jackson Gwinn, who's also a professional tennis instructor at Genesis St. Joseph.

"I was just really impressed with how the girls fought to keep going and keep progressing through all of it," Gwinn said. "We had a couple close matches going through sectionals and everything. It just made it really worthwhile getting there."

LeBlond was represented in the individual state tennis tournament in doubles last Friday by senior Peyton Netten and sophomore Emily Weddle. They lost in the sectional round to&nbsp;Mount Vernon's Brooke Loftus and Jessah Anderson, 6-4, 6-3, but Weddle says getting that postseason experience again as an individual was valuable.

Weddle qualified for the individual state tournament in singles as a freshman last season, too. She says going to state with her entire team helps relieve some of the pressure.

"But, going into (state) as a team, you have a lot more help," she said. "So, it's more relieving."

Another young player who had a big season for LeBlond is freshman Iris Ideker, who finished second in singles at districts and made it to the Class 1 Section 8 meet before getting eliminated 6-2, 6-0 by Marshall's Karsyn King.

"It was super fun," Ideker said. "I didn't expect to make it that far as a freshman."

LeBlond has 10 players on its current roster that were part of last season's fourth place finish at state - the ninth top four finish for Eagles' girls tennis at state in school history.

Gwinn had previously worked with about half of those 10 girls as their tennis instructor at Genesis. That made his first season as their varsity coach in 2021 that much smoother.

"About half of the team already knew me," Gwinn explained. "So, they were not afraid to ask me questions and joke around with me a little bit. So, that helped a lot and made it a bit of a lighter mood going into it. So, I appreciated that personally."

The Eagles will first face Westminster Christian Academy (12-7) on Friday morning at 9 a.m. The winner will face either Kennett (19-0) or Bolivar (16-6) in the championship at 3 p.m.

The third place match will also take place Friday at 3 p.m.

As LeBlond looks to win its first state title in girls' tennis since 1979, Sullivan is confident that her and the four other seniors on the team can go out on top - as long as they continue on the path they've been on.

"We have a lot of confidence," she said. "We just need to put our minds to it and not get in our heads and worry too much, because we can do whatever we put our minds to. Like, if we try hard enough, we can do it. Nothing is impossible."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634845804885.jpeg" alt="Murphy King. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Murphy King. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostBishop LeBlond had a historic run in girls' tennis in 2020, qualifying as a team for state and finishing in the top four for the first time since 2009.With a healthy crop of returning talent, along with two new freshmen, the Eagles (12-3) felt confident they could do it again. Lo and behold, LeBlond is headed back to Springfield for the team semifinals."It really means a lot," said senior Lily Sullivan. "We've put a lot of work into this year and this season to push and win every match like every match counted. So, we really deserve to be here and I think we can pull through."LeBlond won their <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/d713746e-4cc9-4421-91cb-0129e6883316">second straight district title on October 6</a>, defeating Savannah 5-0.They went onto beat Marshall in sectionals, 5-3, and then Harrisonville, 5-0, in quarterfinals on Oct. 12, putting them in the Final Four for a second consecutive season, and for the first time under new head coach Jackson Gwinn, who's also a professional tennis instructor at Genesis St. Joseph."I was just really impressed with how the girls fought to keep going and keep progressing through all of it," Gwinn said. "We had a couple close matches going through sectionals and everything. It just made it really worthwhile getting there."LeBlond was represented in the individual state tennis tournament in doubles last Friday by senior Peyton Netten and sophomore Emily Weddle. They lost in the sectional round to&nbsp;Mount Vernon's Brooke Loftus and Jessah Anderson, 6-4, 6-3, but Weddle says getting that postseason experience again as an individual was valuable.Weddle qualified for the individual state tournament in singles as a freshman last season, too. She says going to state with her entire team helps relieve some of the pressure."But, going into (state) as a team, you have a lot more help," she said. "So, it's more relieving."Another young player who had a big season for LeBlond is freshman Iris Ideker, who finished second in singles at districts and made it to the Class 1 Section 8 meet before getting eliminated 6-2, 6-0 by Marshall's Karsyn King."It was super fun," Ideker said. "I didn't expect to make it that far as a freshman."LeBlond has 10 players on its current roster that were part of last season's fourth place finish at state - the ninth top four finish for Eagles' girls tennis at state in school history.Gwinn had previously worked with about half of those 10 girls as their tennis instructor at Genesis. That made his first season as their varsity coach in 2021 that much smoother."About half of the team already knew me," Gwinn explained. "So, they were not afraid to ask me questions and joke around with me a little bit. So, that helped a lot and made it a bit of a lighter mood going into it. So, I appreciated that personally."The Eagles will first face Westminster Christian Academy (12-7) on Friday morning at 9 a.m. The winner will face either Kennett (19-0) or Bolivar (16-6) in the championship at 3 p.m.The third place match will also take place Friday at 3 p.m.As LeBlond looks to win its first state title in girls' tennis since 1979, Sullivan is confident that her and the four other seniors on the team can go out on top - as long as they continue on the path they've been on."We have a lot of confidence," she said. "We just need to put our minds to it and not get in our heads and worry too much, because we can do whatever we put our minds to. Like, if we try hard enough, we can do it. Nothing is impossible."<div><iframe src="https://anchor.fm/tommy-rezac/embed/episodes/Emily-Weddle-e194c31" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div><div><iframe src="https://anchor.fm/tommy-rezac/embed/episodes/Lily-Sullivan-e194c9r" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div><div><iframe src="https://anchor.fm/tommy-rezac/embed/episodes/Iris-Ideker-e194cet" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div><div><iframe src="https://anchor.fm/tommy-rezac/embed/episodes/Jackson-Gwinn-e194cnl" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633521630943.jpeg" alt="Peyton Netten." />
 <figcaption>Peyton Netten.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634845934025.jpeg" alt="Emily Weddle." />
 <figcaption>Emily Weddle.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

LeBlond girls' tennis heads back to Final Four, looks to build off of last year's run

MAYSVILLE - Maysville got off to a nice start in Wednesday's Class 1 sectional softball game, scoring three runs on three doubles in the first inning.

The No. 2 Wolverines (21-3) scored five runs in the second, five more in the third and a couple more for good measure in the 4th to run rule North Andrew, 15-0, at Lakesite Country Club in Maysville.

"We just showed what this team is capable of," Wolverines coach Ashley Mazurkewycz said. "Our bats were working, our defense was fantastic. It all just came together. It was a fun, fun game."

Maysville blew the game open in the top of the second when sophomore Hailey Lemunyon hit an infield home run to right field, which scored a pair of runs.

 Senior Ashton Willis followed that up three at-bats later with a three-run bomb deep to left, giving Maysville an 8-0 cushion.

The Wolverines scored those first eight runs all with two outs.

After North Andrew went down in order in the bottom of the second, Maysville continued to build its already sizable lead, drawing six walks in the top of the third and scoring an unearned run via error, eventually taking a 13-0 lead.

A two-run homer to left center by senior Ashley Brown in the fourth put Maysville ahead 15-0 and officially into run rule territory.

North Andrew (18-9) got a couple of runners on via walk in the bottom of the fourth, but got nothing across. The Cardinals failed to get a runner to third base in the entire game, and had just one total hit.

Brown, and fellow seniors Claire Catlett, Ashton Willis and Rylie Boyer each scored three runs in the win. Lemunyon scored two runs, while striking out five in a complete game shutout in the circle.

"Oh man, it's exciting," Brown said of her team's performance and season thus far. "Especially since we did this two years ago and the year before that. To come back and do it again my senior year, it's something else that's for sure."

Maysville, who took third at state in 2019 and won the whole thing in 2018, will stay home Saturday to host Pattonsburg in the Class 1 quarterfinal round. First pitch time has yet to be announced.

North Andrew ends the season after winning their first district title since 1991 and a school-record number of wins.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634783692180.jpeg" alt="Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostMAYSVILLE - Maysville got off to a nice start in Wednesday's Class 1 sectional softball game, scoring three runs on three doubles in the first inning.And that was just the start.The No. 2 Wolverines (21-3) scored five runs in the second, five more in the third and a couple more for good measure in the 4th to run rule North Andrew, 15-0, at Lakesite Country Club in Maysville."We just showed what this team is capable of," Wolverines coach Ashley Mazurkewycz said. "Our bats were working, our defense was fantastic. It all just came together. It was a fun, fun game."Maysville blew the game open in the top of the second when sophomore Hailey Lemunyon hit an infield home run to right field, which scored a pair of runs. Senior Ashton Willis followed that up three at-bats later with a three-run bomb deep to left, giving Maysville an 8-0 cushion.The Wolverines scored those first eight runs all with two outs.After North Andrew went down in order in the bottom of the second, Maysville continued to build its already sizable lead, drawing six walks in the top of the third and scoring an unearned run via error, eventually taking a 13-0 lead.A two-run homer to left center by senior Ashley Brown in the fourth put Maysville ahead 15-0 and officially into run rule territory.North Andrew (18-9) got a couple of runners on via walk in the bottom of the fourth, but got nothing across. The Cardinals failed to get a runner to third base in the entire game, and had just one total hit.Brown, and fellow seniors Claire Catlett, Ashton Willis and Rylie Boyer each scored three runs in the win. Lemunyon scored two runs, while striking out five in a complete game shutout in the circle."Oh man, it's exciting," Brown said of her team's performance and season thus far. "Especially since we did this two years ago and the year before that. To come back and do it again my senior year, it's something else that's for sure."Maysville, who took third at state in 2019 and won the whole thing in 2018, will stay home Saturday to host Pattonsburg in the Class 1 quarterfinal round. First pitch time has yet to be announced.North Andrew ends the season after winning their first district title since 1991 and a school-record number of wins.You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Maysville builds early lead, routs North Andrew in sectional softball Wednesday

The girls’ state golf tournaments concluded in all classes Tuesday afternoon, and there are three medalists from the KFEQ/St. Joseph Post area, including a top three finisher in Class 1.

East Buchanan senior Madi Jessen finished third overall, shooting a round-one 88 and round-two 92. She was only eight strokes off the lead and three strokes away from finishing second.

A two-time district champion, Jessen finished fourth at state last year.

The Bulldogs finished 4th out of 9 teams - six shots ahead of 5th place East Atchison. The Maysville girls finished 9th as a team. East Atchison’s Jamie Barnett finished tied for 13th, shooting a 101 and 99.

Savannah’s Mollee Olszowka finished 18th with a first-round 92 and second-round 88. She was only five strokes away from medaling. Benton’s Jaida Cox tied for 46th with rounds of 97 and 108.

St. Joseph Central’s Ali Perry comes home a state medalist, placing 13th with rounds of 82 and 78. She placed 23rd at state the year prior.

Evan Sigars tied for 49th, shooting a score of 90 on each day. Sigars placed 55th at the state meet last season.

Full local results, starting with Class 1 (place, total score)

Jamie Barnett - East Atchison (t-13th, 200)

Hannah Archdekin - East Buchanan (t-28th, 207)

Sydnee Burns - East Atchison (t-42nd, 213)

Kelsea Kirwan - East Atchison (54th, 221)

Justina Wimer - Worth County (t-61st, 226)

Alexandria McManus - Maysville (t-64th, 229)

Addisyn Musser - East Buchanan (t-69th, 239)

East Buchanan - 4th (+270) East Atchison - 5th (+276) Maysville - 9th (+334)

Ali Perry - St. Joseph Central (t-13th, 160)

Evan Sigars - St. Joseph Central (t-49th, 180)

Ava Gaddie - St. Joseph Central (t-62nd, 190)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634682197970.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo. Sidnee Carr is not pictured, since she left to play volleyball." />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo. Sidnee Carr is not pictured, since she left to play volleyball.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe girls’ state golf tournaments concluded in all classes Tuesday afternoon, and there are three medalists from the KFEQ/St. Joseph Post area, including a top three finisher in Class 1.Class 1 in BolivarEast Buchanan senior Madi Jessen finished third overall, shooting a round-one 88 and round-two 92. She was only eight strokes off the lead and three strokes away from finishing second.A two-time district champion, Jessen finished fourth at state last year.The Bulldogs finished 4th out of 9 teams - six shots ahead of 5th place East Atchison. The Maysville girls finished 9th as a team. East Atchison’s Jamie Barnett finished tied for 13th, shooting a 101 and 99.Class 2 in ColumbiaSavannah’s Mollee Olszowka finished 18th with a first-round 92 and second-round 88. She was only five strokes away from medaling. Benton’s Jaida Cox tied for 46th with rounds of 97 and 108.Class 4 in SpringfieldSt. Joseph Central’s Ali Perry comes home a state medalist, placing 13th with rounds of 82 and 78. She placed 23rd at state the year prior.Evan Sigars tied for 49th, shooting a score of 90 on each day. Sigars placed 55th at the state meet last season.Full local results, starting with Class 1 (place, total score)Madi Jessen - East Buchanan (3rd, 180)Jamie Barnett - East Atchison (t-13th, 200)Cailyn Auffert - Maryville (17th, 201)Hannah Archdekin - East Buchanan (t-28th, 207)Elle Copple - Gallatin (t-33rd, 209)Sydnee Burns - East Atchison (t-42nd, 213)Hannah Riner -Maysville (47th, 217)Josie King - East Atchison (t-48th, 218)Sidnee Carr - East Buchanan (53rd, 220)Kelsea Kirwan - East Atchison (54th, 221)Hayley Sweiger - Maysville (t-58th, 224)Justina Wimer - Worth County (t-61st, 226)Alexandria McManus - Maysville (t-64th, 229)Casey Phillips - Maryville (67th, 231)Addisyn Musser - East Buchanan (t-69th, 239)Claire Renfro - Maysville (71st, 240)Lauren Jaster - Maryville (t-74th, 246)Courtney Crose - Gallatin (t-78th, 250)Class 1 team standingsEast Buchanan - 4th (+270) East Atchison - 5th (+276) Maysville - 9th (+334)Class 2 local resultsMollee Olszowka - Savannah (18th, 180)Jaida Cox - Benton (t-46th, 205)Maggie Elgert - Savannah (t-56th, 215)Macy Bernard - Benton (t-69th, 232)Kennedy Roach - Cameron (t-69th, 232)Hailee Williams - Cameron (t-74th, 236)Class 4 local resultsAli Perry - St. Joseph Central (t-13th, 160)Evan Sigars - St. Joseph Central (t-49th, 180)Ava Gaddie - St. Joseph Central (t-62nd, 190)<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck">Extremely proud of these girls. 4 years ago there was no golf team and today they took home 4th in state. Very impressive! Don’t mind the poor photoshop, Sidnee Carr had to leave early to get back to play for a conference title. <a href="https://twitter.com/chrisRroush?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@chrisRroush</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/SJNPSports?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SJNPSports</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/LeaderMOSports?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@LeaderMOSports</a> <a href="https://t.co/DUDtyR4VuD">pic.twitter.com/DUDtyR4VuD</a>&mdash; Michael (@carpenter387) <a href="https://twitter.com/carpenter387/status/1450579801375453184?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 19, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck">Ali Perry finishes with a 78 on Round 2 for a 2-day score of 160! Way to go, Ali! We are so proud of you! Top 15 medal All-State, and Ali is T13 as of now! Waiting on the final groups to come in! ⛳️ <a href="https://twitter.com/CHS_Indians?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CHS_Indians</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/chsabc2015?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@chsabc2015</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/chrisRroush?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@chrisRroush</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/DCLau5?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DCLau5</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/KQ2SPORTS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KQ2SPORTS</a> ⁦<a href="https://twitter.com/SJNPSports?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SJNPSports</a>⁩ <a href="https://t.co/11U0vlWAAb">pic.twitter.com/11U0vlWAAb</a>&mdash; Central Indians Golf (@CHS_Indian_Golf) <a href="https://twitter.com/CHS_Indian_Golf/status/1450558159723061267?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 19, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>

East Buchanan's Madi Jessen takes third, Central's Ali Perry medals at state golf

Missouri Western place kicker and Omaha native Thomas Kopcho was named the MIAA Special Teams Player of the Week Monday after his record-setting performance against Northeastern State Saturday.

 Kopcho was a perfect 5-for-5 on field goals, including a long of 44 yards. He also connected on all six of his point-after attempts to score a school and league record of 21 points in a single game as a kicker, helping the Griffons to a 57-24 win at Spratt Stadium Saturday.

His five made field goals also tied a school record. Head coach Matt Williamson said Kopcho had trouble gaining confidence early in the season, but had noticed him making strides in practice and decided to give him a shot.

"He was just so frustrated at the beginning of the season," Williamson said. "He was a little bit inconsistent and those guys get in their heads a little bit. So, it was really good to see him do that. I know he has it in him. I knew he always did."

Missouri Western stays home this weekend to face Pittsburg State. Kickoff from Spratt Stadium on Saturday is set for 4 p.m. The game will be carried live on KFEQ Radio (680 AM, 95.3 FM).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634593069876.jpeg" alt="Courtesy of the MIAA." />
 <figcaption>Courtesy of the MIAA.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostMissouri Western place kicker and Omaha native Thomas Kopcho was named the MIAA Special Teams Player of the Week Monday after his record-setting performance against Northeastern State Saturday. Kopcho was a perfect 5-for-5 on field goals, including a long of 44 yards. He also connected on all six of his point-after attempts to score a school and league record of 21 points in a single game as a kicker, helping the Griffons to a 57-24 win at Spratt Stadium Saturday.His five made field goals also tied a school record. Head coach Matt Williamson said Kopcho had trouble gaining confidence early in the season, but had noticed him making strides in practice and decided to give him a shot."He was just so frustrated at the beginning of the season," Williamson said. "He was a little bit inconsistent and those guys get in their heads a little bit. So, it was really good to see him do that. I know he has it in him. I knew he always did."Missouri Western stays home this weekend to face Pittsburg State. Kickoff from Spratt Stadium on Saturday is set for 4 p.m. The game will be carried live on KFEQ Radio (680 AM, 95.3 FM).

Missouri Western kicker Thomas Kopcho named MIAA Specialist of the Week

WASHINGTON (AP) - Patrick Mahomes threw for 397 yards and engineered three second-half touchdown drives to compensate for a pair of interceptions, leading the Kansas City Chiefs to a 31-13 comeback victory at Washington Sunday that got them back to .500 at 3-3 overall.

 After throwing two picks before halftime, Mahomes connected with Tyreek Hill on a two-yard touchdown pass late in the third quarter and put the game out of reach with a 24-yarder to Demarcus Robinson with 3:14 left in the fourth.

In between, new starting running back Darrel Williams rushed for his second TD of the game to help Kansas City (3-3) avoid what would have been an embarrassing loss.

"Obviously, the first half didn't go the way we wanted it to," Mahomes admitted. "I thought the defense did a great job of keeping us in the game. In the second half, we executed better. Guys believed in each other, and we were able to find a way to get a win."

Defensively, the Chiefs held Washington to just 76 yards and four first downs in the second half. Safety Tyrann Mathieu got upset in the first half after the Chiefs allowed Washington to convert on a third-and-16 and then score on a 39-yard TD pass. That helped Washington lead 13-10 at halftime.

However, the Chiefs outscored Washington 21-0 in the final two quarters.

"We could be a championship defense," Mathieu said. "We've been to the championship the last two years and I think after awhile you have to play a certain way. Obviously on 3rd-and-long, you have to get off the football field."

The Chiefs came into Sunday with only four takeaways all season and they managed to produce two against Washington. This was the first game all season KC did not allow at least 29 points.

The Chiefs are back on the road Sunday to face Tennessee. Kickoff is set for noon central. The game will be carried on KFEQ Radio (680 AM, 95.3 FM) and Q Country 92.7 FM in St. Joseph.

St. Joseph PostWASHINGTON (AP) - Patrick Mahomes threw for 397 yards and engineered three second-half touchdown drives to compensate for a pair of interceptions, leading the Kansas City Chiefs to a 31-13 comeback victory at Washington Sunday that got them back to .500 at 3-3 overall. After throwing two picks before halftime, Mahomes connected with Tyreek Hill on a two-yard touchdown pass late in the third quarter and put the game out of reach with a 24-yarder to Demarcus Robinson with 3:14 left in the fourth.In between, new starting running back Darrel Williams rushed for his second TD of the game to help Kansas City (3-3) avoid what would have been an embarrassing loss."Obviously, the first half didn't go the way we wanted it to," Mahomes admitted. "I thought the defense did a great job of keeping us in the game. In the second half, we executed better. Guys believed in each other, and we were able to find a way to get a win."Defensively, the Chiefs held Washington to just 76 yards and four first downs in the second half. Safety Tyrann Mathieu got upset in the first half after the Chiefs allowed Washington to convert on a third-and-16 and then score on a 39-yard TD pass. That helped Washington lead 13-10 at halftime.However, the Chiefs outscored Washington 21-0 in the final two quarters."We could be a championship defense," Mathieu said. "We've been to the championship the last two years and I think after awhile you have to play a certain way. Obviously on 3rd-and-long, you have to get off the football field."The Chiefs came into Sunday with only four takeaways all season and they managed to produce two against Washington. This was the first game all season KC did not allow at least 29 points.The Chiefs are back on the road Sunday to face Tennessee. Kickoff is set for noon central. The game will be carried on KFEQ Radio (680 AM, 95.3 FM) and Q Country 92.7 FM in St. Joseph.

Chiefs bounce back in second half, score big win at Washington Sunday

Missouri Western found itself in a unique position Saturday - they were ahead by double-digits at halftime. It was the first time the Griffons led at the break all season.

"We got together (at halftime) and said, 'Alright. We have to keep swinging,'" Missouri Western head coach Matt Williamson said. "'This is the second round. Let's finish out this second half and get after it.'"

The Griffons (3-4) rode that momentum big time in the second half, scoring 34 points in the third quarter and forcing seven turnovers on their way to a 57-24 win over Northeastern State at Spratt Stadium Saturday in the annual homecoming game.

"Good night," Williamson said. "Great to be back at the Spratt. Awesome crowd. Beautiful day. Great to get a win."

Missouri Western, which snapped a three-game losing streak, got the scoring started midway through the first quarter when Shen Butler-Lawson Jr. polished off an eight-play, 67-yard drive with a one-yard touchdown run to give the Griffons an early 7-0 lead.

Northeastern State (2-5) answered with a five-play, 92-yard drive of their own. Quarterback Grant Elerick fired a pass down the middle to a wide open Isaiah Davis, who caught a 26-yard touchdown to tie the game at 7-7 on the first play of the second quarter.

That's as close as the Riverhawks would get to having a lead.

The Griffons answered on the ensuing drive, moving 68 yards on seven plays. The drive ended with a seven-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Reagan Jones to receiver C.J. Parks, putting the Griffons back in front 14-7 with 12:24 to go in the first half.

Missouri Western's defense started to come up big in the second quarter, forcing four total turnovers in the first half. The Griffons turned three of those four first-half turnovers into points. Those points all came via field goals from Thomas Kopcho, who made field goals of 44, 33 and 37 yards in the second quarter, giving Missouri Western a 23-7 lead at the break.

Kopcho was 0-for-1 on field goal tries on the season coming into Saturday. He missed his only previous attempt of 36 yards in the first game of the season at Central Oklahoma.

"Thank goodness Thomas Kopcho came out on fire," Williamson said. "I know he has it in him. I knew he always did. Those kickers are all about confidence and I was trying to build that. He was trying to build it."

Kopcho made his fourth field goal, this one from 21 yards out, early in the third quarter to put the Griffons ahead 26-10 to get the scoring started in the second half.

Northeastern State kicker Tyler Crawford responded on the ensuing drive with a 42-yard field goal of his own, making it a 26-10 game with 7:50 to go in the third.

On the ensuing kickoff, Missouri Western's Cooper Burton fielded a bouncing kick inside the five and ran it down the sideline for a 99-yard kickoff return for a touchdown, putting the Griffons ahead 33-10.

The Riverhawks scored on their next possession. Backup quarterback Jacob Frazier threw a 55-yard touchdown pass to Isaiah Davis, making it a 33-17 ballgame with still 6:34 to go in the third.

Kopcho then made his fifth and final field goal from 36 yards out, giving the Griffons a 36-17 advantage. On Northeastern State's ensuing drive, Missouri Western linebacker Isaac Wallace tipped a third down pass into the air, which was then intercepted by fellow linebacker Terrance March, who took it the other way 70 yards for a pick-six, putting the Griffons ahead comfortably at 43-17.

Northeastern State threw yet another interception, their fifth, on their first play from scrimmage on the next drive. Safety Kobe Cummings snagged this one and returned it roughly 60 yards to set the Griffons up in the red zone.

Just two plays later, Cooper Burton got the ball on a reverse and threw it to a wide open Reagan Jones in the end zone from 10 yards out, putting the Griffons ahead 50-17 with 1:36 to go in the third.

Missouri Western wasn't done scoring in the third quarter yet. Northeastern State had turned to their third quarterback, freshman Ben Ward, who threw a 26-yard pick-six to Kameron Langford on his very first pass attempt of the game.

Langford's return gave MWSU a 57-17 advantage entering the fourth.

In total, the Griffons scored 34 points in the third quarter - two pick-sixes, a kick return for a touchdown, two field goals and one offensive touchdown as well.

"It was fun to watch a lot of scoring and a lot of things," Williamson said. "Not a lot of great, great defense on the day, but it is what it is. We had some big kickoff returns. Did some good things on special teams."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634442087913.jpeg" alt="Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostMissouri Western found itself in a unique position Saturday - they were ahead by double-digits at halftime. It was the first time the Griffons led at the break all season."We got together (at halftime) and said, 'Alright. We have to keep swinging,'" Missouri Western head coach Matt Williamson said. "'This is the second round. Let's finish out this second half and get after it.'"The Griffons (3-4) rode that momentum big time in the second half, scoring 34 points in the third quarter and forcing seven turnovers on their way to a 57-24 win over Northeastern State at Spratt Stadium Saturday in the annual homecoming game."Good night," Williamson said. "Great to be back at the Spratt. Awesome crowd. Beautiful day. Great to get a win."Missouri Western, which snapped a three-game losing streak, got the scoring started midway through the first quarter when Shen Butler-Lawson Jr. polished off an eight-play, 67-yard drive with a one-yard touchdown run to give the Griffons an early 7-0 lead.Northeastern State (2-5) answered with a five-play, 92-yard drive of their own. Quarterback Grant Elerick fired a pass down the middle to a wide open Isaiah Davis, who caught a 26-yard touchdown to tie the game at 7-7 on the first play of the second quarter.That's as close as the Riverhawks would get to having a lead.The Griffons answered on the ensuing drive, moving 68 yards on seven plays. The drive ended with a seven-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Reagan Jones to receiver C.J. Parks, putting the Griffons back in front 14-7 with 12:24 to go in the first half.Missouri Western's defense started to come up big in the second quarter, forcing four total turnovers in the first half. The Griffons turned three of those four first-half turnovers into points. Those points all came via field goals from Thomas Kopcho, who made field goals of 44, 33 and 37 yards in the second quarter, giving Missouri Western a 23-7 lead at the break.Kopcho was 0-for-1 on field goal tries on the season coming into Saturday. He missed his only previous attempt of 36 yards in the first game of the season at Central Oklahoma."Thank goodness Thomas Kopcho came out on fire," Williamson said. "I know he has it in him. I knew he always did. Those kickers are all about confidence and I was trying to build that. He was trying to build it."Kopcho made his fourth field goal, this one from 21 yards out, early in the third quarter to put the Griffons ahead 26-10 to get the scoring started in the second half.Northeastern State kicker Tyler Crawford responded on the ensuing drive with a 42-yard field goal of his own, making it a 26-10 game with 7:50 to go in the third.On the ensuing kickoff, Missouri Western's Cooper Burton fielded a bouncing kick inside the five and ran it down the sideline for a 99-yard kickoff return for a touchdown, putting the Griffons ahead 33-10.The Riverhawks scored on their next possession. Backup quarterback Jacob Frazier threw a 55-yard touchdown pass to Isaiah Davis, making it a 33-17 ballgame with still 6:34 to go in the third.Kopcho then made his fifth and final field goal from 36 yards out, giving the Griffons a 36-17 advantage. On Northeastern State's ensuing drive, Missouri Western linebacker Isaac Wallace tipped a third down pass into the air, which was then intercepted by fellow linebacker Terrance March, who took it the other way 70 yards for a pick-six, putting the Griffons ahead comfortably at 43-17.Northeastern State threw yet another interception, their fifth, on their first play from scrimmage on the next drive. Safety Kobe Cummings snagged this one and returned it roughly 60 yards to set the Griffons up in the red zone.Just two plays later, Cooper Burton got the ball on a reverse and threw it to a wide open Reagan Jones in the end zone from 10 yards out, putting the Griffons ahead 50-17 with 1:36 to go in the third.Missouri Western wasn't done scoring in the third quarter yet. Northeastern State had turned to their third quarterback, freshman Ben Ward, who threw a 26-yard pick-six to Kameron Langford on his very first pass attempt of the game.Langford's return gave MWSU a 57-17 advantage entering the fourth.In total, the Griffons scored 34 points in the third quarter - two pick-sixes, a kick return for a touchdown, two field goals and one offensive touchdown as well."It was fun to watch a lot of scoring and a lot of things," Williamson said. "Not a lot of great, great defense on the day, but it is what it is. We had some big kickoff returns. Did some good things on special teams."In all, Missouri Western turned seven turnovers into 30 points. Kopcho accounted for 21 points all by himself - a new school record for points by a kicker in a single game."He was so frustrated at the beginning of the season," Williamson said. "He was a little bit inconsistent, and those guys get in their heads a little bit. It was really good to see him do that."Cummings finished with three interceptions, while March had two. Defensive end Dakari Streeter had a strip sack and fumble recovery in the first half. Parks' touchdown catch in the first half was his first as a Griffon.Not perfect. Williamson was a bit frustrated as Northeastern State had 456 yards of offense, including five plays of 40 yards or more. But, hey. When your team wins by 33 to snap a three-game losing skid and forces seven turnovers in the process, it's hard to complain."Great feeling," Williamson said. "Get a win, enjoy and get ready to rock 'n' roll and get after Pittsburg State."Missouri Western stays home to host Pittsburg State (5-2) on Saturday, Oct. 23 at Spratt Stadium at 4 p.m. The game will be carried live on KFEQ Radio (680 AM, 95.3 FM). The Gorillas beat Lincoln Saturday, 59-7.<div><iframe src="https://anchor.fm/tommy-rezac/embed/episodes/Missouri-Western-vs--Northeastern-State---3rd-quarter-highlights-e18t3r0" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div><div><iframe src="https://anchor.fm/tommy-rezac/embed/episodes/Matt-Williamson-postgame-after-Northeastern-State-e18t5jv" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.