Vina stops skid with rout of Mt. Hope

By Staff
Brian Hamilton For the FCT
MT. HOPE – The Vina Red Devils traveled to Mt. Hope Friday night looking to break a three game losing streak. The losing streak ended as the Red Devils (2-3) scored early and often en route to a 43-13 victory over the Yellow Jackets.
The Red Devils took just three plays on their opening possession to hit pay dirt. On their third play from scrimmage, Red Devil quarterback Brent Townsend rolled out to his left and found a wide open Blake Thorn streaking down the sideline for a 39 yard touchdown reception. Townsend's extra point attempt was good and with 10:53 remaining in the first quarter, Vina went on top 7-0.
After kicking off to Mt. Hope, it did not take long for the Red Devil defense to make its presence known.
After three plays that failed to gain a first down, the Yellow Jackets attempted to punt from deep in their own territory on fourth down.
The snap sailed over the punter's head into the end zone where it was recovered for a Vina touchdown by Blake Thorn. Townsend's extra point was again good and with 8:42 remaining in the first quarter, the Red Devils increased their lead to 14-0.
On Mt. Hope's next offensive play, Vina defensive end Robbie Powell tipped the ball as the Yellow Jackets were attempting a toss sweep to their tailback. The Red Devils recovered the fumble on the Mt. Hope 13 yard line. Two plays later Townsend connected with Red Devil wide receiver Paul Wilkins for another touchdown.
Townsend made his third consecutive extra point and with 7:06 still left in the first quarter, the Red Devil lead grew to 21-0.
The Red Devils added another touchdown with 36 seconds remaining first quarter. Red Devil tailback Nash Creekmore took the handoff and raced down the field 61 yards for the score. Townsend made it 4 out of 4 on extra points and the Red Devils led 28-0.
The Red Devil defense got into the scoring act again on Mt. Hope's next possession.
After pinning the Yellow Jackets deep in their territory, Mt. Hope was forced to punt again.
The snap again sailed over the punter's head and the Red Devils tackled the punter in the end zone for a safety. And with 10:40 remaining in the second quarter, Vina increased its lead to 30-0.
With the game under control, Red Devil Coach Bill Smith was able to play his younger kids for the rest of the night and the final score ended 43-13.
The Red Devils will play host to a tough Speake team this Friday night. Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. at Franklin-Hester Stadium.