MEEKER | The Meeker Cowboys football team continued their winning streak last Friday, defeating the North Fork Miners 42-7 on the road. The Cowboys came into the game on a four-game winning streak, having beaten their opponents by an average of 30.5 points.
“We did really well,” head coach Andy Coryell said. “It’s hard to get on a bus and come to North Fork to play a really good, well-coached football team, but I thought we answered the bell tonight.”
Senior running back Clay Crawford was a standout on offense, rushing for 119 yards and three touchdowns on just seven carries. His longest rush of the night was for 51 yards.
“I knew it was going to be a good game, so I was ready,” Crawford said. “I didn’t anticipate having such an explosive night, but when I got the chance, I made sure to get as many yards as I could. I think the 50-60 yard touchdown I had just after Tucker Chinn’s interception really got us going—we just continued to score and score.”
Crawford credited his offensive line for his success.
“I would really like to thank our offensive line,” Crawford said. “They have really stepped up and
are doing a great job. They improve every week and make me and the other backs look good.”
Coach Coryell shared the game plan going into Friday night’s contest.
“The same as it is every week—we’re trying to take care of the ball and clock and not miss any tackles. But it all comes down to the guys up front, and they answered the bell,” Coryell said.
Senior running back Cade Blunt also contributed on the ground, rushing for 107 yards and a touchdown. The Cowboys rushing offensive racked up 333 rushing yards in total last Friday.
“Our offensive line doesn’t always stack up in size against a lot of these teams, but what they lack in size, they make up for in heart,” Blunt said. “A lot of these kids I have classes with—they’re amazing kids, who always put their best foot forward.”
Sophomore running back Said Rodriguez made a notable play, returning the kickoff at the start of the third quarter.
“Every block in that kickoff was important,” Rodriguez said. “My strategy was to run fast and not get tackled. My teammates played a crucial role, and I love my team—my success wouldn’t happen without them.”
With the win, the Cowboys improved to 5-2 and extended their road winning streak to four games. They will be back in action this Friday night at home against the Olathe Pirates, with kickoff set for 7 p.m. at Starbuck Stadium.
By JARED HENDERSON
Running back Clay Crawford (22) had 119 yards and three touchdowns in Friday night’s win over the North Fork Miners. The Cowboys are now 5-2 for the season with four wins in a row on the road. They’ll play at home this Friday against the Olathe Pirates, starting at 7 p.m. JARED HENDERSON PHOTO