YORKTON - It’s a long ride to Swift Current, but it was a fruitful trip for the Yorkton Regional High School Raiders Gridders.
The local 12-man football squad rolled to a 30-14 win over the host Colts Saturday.
Yorkton coach Jason Boyda said the game was one “leaving fans on the edge of their seats.”
Boyda noted a 30-point effort was a good one.
“The offence, led by Tyson Korol and Derek Kienle, showcased its explosiveness, while the defence, anchored by Hayden Russell, Royce Rathgaber, and Joel Hubred, demonstrated its resilience and ability to seize crucial turnovers,” he said.
Tyson Korol led the Raider Gridder attack with a pair of rushing touchdowns, and adding a third TD via a punt return.
“He (Korol), bulldozed his way through Swift Current's defence, scoring two impressive rushing touchdowns and another on a punt return that set the tone for the entire game,” said Boyda. “Korol's ability to find the gaps and accelerate through them was a key factor in the Raider Gridder ground attack.”
Derek Kienle scored a receiving TD for Yorkton.
Boyda said the TD showed a growing connection between Kienle and his QB.
“Quarterback Chase Batke demonstrated his precision and connection with the slot back Derek Kienle securing one more touchdown with a pinpoint throw to the end zone,” said Boyda.
“Batke’s ability to read the defence and make accurate throws was a key factor in securing the victory.”
On defence Hayden Russell and Royce Rathgaber both came through with a pair of quarterback sacks each.
“The defensive unit was equally relentless, led by Hayden Russell, who executed two quarterback sacks with precision and tenacity,” said Boyda. “Russell's ability to disrupt Swift Current's offensive rhythm played a pivotal role in maintaining the Raider Gridders' lead. “Royce Rathgaber, another standout defensive player, matched Russell's impressive feat with two quarterback sacks of his own.
“The relentless pressure from Rathgaber and Russell kept the Swift Current offence on the back foot throughout the game.”
Joel Hubred snagged an interception.
“The icing on the cake for the Raider Gridders' defence came courtesy of Joel Hubred, who showcased his prowess in the secondary with a crucial interception,” said Boyda. “The interception not only halted a promising Swift Current drive but also symbolized the defensive cohesion and determination that defines this team. In the end, it was a well-rounded team effort that secured the Raider Gridders' victory over Swift Current.”
The win improves the Raider Gridders record to 3-0 on the season.
Yorkton hosts the Moose Jaw Central Cyclones Saturday, Sept. 30, under the lights at Kinsmen Century Field.
