***This article was written by Kendall Vincent, a participant in the Kewanee Voice Student Journalism Program funded by the Harry Anderson Memorial Trust.
In an exhilarating season opener at the Wethersfield Memorial Stadium, the Annawan-Wethersfield Titans showcased their dominance, steamrolling South Fulton with a commanding 42-0 win.
From the opening kickoff, the Titans were in control. Quarterback Brody Childs led the initial charge, connecting with wide receiver, Maddox Heitzler for a swift 40-yard touchdown.
The momentum only grew as running back Zeb Rashid rushed 52 yards, making the score 14-0 almost instantly.
The Titans’ defense was impenetrable, locking down South Fulton and forcing multiple turnovers on downs.
Running back Devon Horrie added to the success of the Titans by running in a 4-yard touchdown, starting the second quarter at 21-0.
Unfortunately, senior quarterback, Brody Childs, took a rough sack that led to him breaking his collarbone and not allowing him to finish his senior game debut. Junior Maddox Heitzler took over as quarterback to finish the rest of the game.
By halftime, thanks to further exploits from Heitzler and his team, including another 4-yard touchdown by Nic Thruston, the score soared to 28-0.
During the first half of the game kicker, Jonathan Torres, went 4 for 4 in kicking the extra points.
The third quarter saw Heitzler adding another 50-yard rushing touchdown, followed by another extra point by Torres, pushing the lead to 35-0.
Heitzler delivered the final blow with a 15-yard touchdown and Torres hit his sixth PAT kick of the night, sealing the score at 42-0.
Head coach Tony Gripp could not have been prouder with the outcome and with the players who had to step up after injuries took place.
“We have a deep roster. Those who got to play for the ones who got hurt had the ‘next man up’ mentality which helped secure the win,” he said.
The Titans’ performance was a perfect start to the season, thrilling fans and setting high expectations for the games ahead.