Titans Bounce Back To Scare Panthers And Rout Pirates
University High came up big during Thursday night’s 42-7 football victory over Rogers.
But it was the game six days earlier that showed the Titans’ character.
Coming off a loss to rival Central Valley that could have had emotional consequences, the Titans regrouped to nearly beat Mead in that game.
The team lost by a touchdown and within a yard of the tying score as time ran out, even with tackle Zaq Flanary missing since the second quarter with a knee injury.
“The kids played with heart and character against Mead,” said coach Mike Ganey. “They believe in themselves and can compete with any team in the GSL.”
A short but spirited week of practice preceded Thursday’s romp over Rogers, which included 156 yards rushing and two touchdowns by Tim Buchanan, a critical 34-yard touchdown pass from Casey Cornelius to Joe Jeffries with time running out in the first half and a 41-yard fumble return by defensive lineman Jeff Hollenbach.
“If you look at the stats, everyone is averaging the same,” said Ganey. “We spread things around. You can’t concentrate on one player.”
Buchanan now has 407 yards rushing, but fullbacks Jason Daniel and Mike Rosa have combined for an added 300.
Unfortunately, Daniel, who also starts at linebacker, had his season end Thursday when he broke his fibula following a third-quarter carry.
Four receivers have divided up 551 yards in yardage, tight end Mike Roberg with 12 catches for 177 yards, Jeffries with 11 catches for 165 yards, Kurt Moore 6 catches for 120 yards and Ryan Massey with 7 catches for 85 yards.
University played Rogers without Flanary and Massey, who is also sidelined by an ongoing injury.
But the Titans won handily and remain in the GSL playoff picture with their highest offensive score of the year.
“It’s due to our senior leadership,” said Ganey. “They said we’ve got to keep going and have made us a better football team.”
The win came on the heels of Central Valley’s fifth straight league victory, 34-21 over Shadle Park.
CV did all its scoring in the first half with Giorgio Usai rushing for 159 yards and four touchdowns.
He now has 889 yards on 117 carries and has scored 14 TDs.
EV volleyball team opens ground
East Valley completed a season sweep of West Valley’s volleyball team to take a firm hold on second place in the Frontier League.
The four-game victory, including scores of 15-13 and 15-14 improved the Knight record to 6-1, two games ahead of the Eagles with five remaining.
Next up is unbeaten Clarkston on Tuesday for a share of the league lead.
Sophomore Deb Asbury led offensively with 13 kills and Angela Overdorff had 11 blocks.
Title on line for runners
Following most recent Frontier League cross country races, the stage is set for next Thursday’s championship meet between the East Valley and West Valley girls.
The defending state champion Knights won their first two races and Eagles moved to 3-0.
They’ll race at Plante’s Ferry Park.
Drop-in volleyball
Spokane County Parks and Recreation is offering drop-in volleyball for interested players ages 16 and older.
Play takes place Tuesdays through Nov. 14 at North Pines Junior High, from 7 to 9 p.m.
Cost per two-hour session is $2. For information call 456-4730.
, DataTimes