Sheridan picked up its first win of the season on Friday, going on the road to beat rival Clinton Central 27-0.
The victory is also significant in that this game was the first Hoosier Heartland Conference contest for the Blackhawks. Sheridan won an undefeated HHC championship last year.
The ‘Hawks scored their first touchdown early in the first quarter on a three-yard run from James Manis. In the second quarter, Sheridan quarterback Drake Delph connected with Caine Spencer for a 17-yard touchdown pass. Delph then threw a two-point conversion pass to Nick Burnell, and the Blackhawks had a 14-0 lead.
Burnell scored two rushing touchdowns in the fourth quarter, both from four yards. Manis made an extra point kick after Burnell’s second score.
“I’m happy with the win,” said Sheridan coach Bud Wright. “I was happy with the way we moved the ball.”
However, Wright was not happy with the penalties. The Blackhawks committed 11 of them, costing them 117 yards.
“We just didn’t click very good,” said Wright. “We dominated as far as the stats were concerned, but we just made too many mistakes.”
Cameron Hovey was Sheridan’s leading rusher, with 146 yards on 26 carries. Delph completed six of 10 passes for 98 yards, with Burnell catching three of them for 42 yards.
The Blackhawks are now 1-1 for the season and host Tri-Central next Friday in another conference game.
Sheridan senior Nick Burnell (25) carries the football as senior Luke Chesney (56) and freshman Evan Bourdon (34) run alongside him during the Blackhawks’ game at Clinton Central on Friday. Sheridan won 27-0 to get its first victory of the season. (Si DeVaney III)
James Manis (21) scored a touchdown for Sheridan during its win at Clinton Central. Also pictured is Jesse Kolb (45). (Kurt Olsan)