A big win doesn’t always have to be dramatic.
Hamilton Southeastern’s 13-0 victory over Westfield Friday at Reynolds Royals Stadium was a bit of a grinder. But it’s also a victory – in their Homecoming game, no less – and one that the Royals really wanted.
“I knew these guys could put one together,” said HSE coach Scott May. His Royals improved to 2-3 with the victory, and also ended Westfield’s long win streak at 12 games, dating back to last September. The Shamrocks fell to 4-1 after their first loss of the season.
Actually, there was a dramatic moment in the fourth quarter. Southeastern was clinging to a 7-0 lead, but Kody Sparks and Nick Mutchner teamed up for a huge play with a little over three minutes to go. Sparks tossed the ball to Mutchner, who powered into the end zone for a 58-yard pass play touchdown. That put the Royals up by two possessions.
“Offensively, I thought Sparks stepped up tonight and he gives us that option to get the ball down the field,” said May.
Southeastern’s other touchdown came late in the second quarter. Jackson Sweeney, who is definitely making his presence known after missing the first third of the season due to injury, punched the ball in from the one-yard line. Tyler Melser made the extra-point kick.
Sweeney finished the game with 69 yards rushing. Sparks was efficient, going 10-for-19 and totaling 101 yards.
Cameron Nance led the Shamrocks in rushing with 29 yards, and threw 14-for-28 for 82 yards. Matthew Meyer made four catches.
The Royals will travel to Zionsville next Friday, while the Shamrocks will host Brownsburg.
The Hamilton Southeastern football team happily signs the school song to the crowd after beating Westfield 13-0 in Friday’s Homecoming game. (Richie Hall)