Vikings get handled in opening round

DRUMMOND— It was a David and Goliath match-up as the Charlo Vikings faced off against the 44-8 Drummond Trojans, but there was no underdog upset this time.

"Their offensive line dominated us," head coach Steve Love said. "Their execution does not allow any missed assignments so you don't get second chances with them."

The Trojans are the three-time defending state champions in Western C football. Their running attack is one of the best around and it is hard for teams to be able to get a read on them and catch-up. Drummond streaked past the Vikings putting up 36 points in the first quarter with two more touchdowns in the second and fourth.

"They [Drummond] are a talented offensive team and run very hard," Love said. "Our kids never backed down, though. We had a lot of great efforts but you have to tip your hat to their performance."

TJ Kerr had 12 carries for 34 yards. Dallas Andrews had six carries for 26 yards nailing the only Viking TD on a 9-yard run.

Quarterback Jeff Bucholz went 5 for 16 recording 75 yards with two interceptions. Shadow Deveraux had two catches for 57 yards and he was the leading receiver for the Vikings.

"Our offense has been inconsistent throughout the season and Friday night was no different," Love said. "We knew we had to get first downs and keep them off the field offensively. One thing that Drummond never gets enough credit for is their defense and they manhandled us on the line of scrimmage."

Despite the loss, Love noted that he was proud of the team for getting back up, especially the backs and ends. No matter the hit the guys came back for more, he said.

On the defense it was a tough battle for the Vikings as they let Drummond get 233 yards on 23 carries. Jason Foust recorded one solo tackle and had 12 assists along with Jake Herak who had three solo takedowns and 10 assists. He also had one fumble recovery. Dallas Andrews recorded two solo tackles with six assists to finish off the night.

"We had an up and down season with a combination of some experience and a lot of youth," Love said. "However I liked our attitude heading into Drummond. We played to win the game all the way to the end. There was never any quit despite no one giving us a chance to win. It says a lot about our players that they gave their best efforts every down."

Charlo finishes the season with a 4-4 regular season record in Western C football.

"I always tell our guys before each game that they have to look at themselves in the mirror afterward and be able to say 'I left it on the field'," Love said. "Friday I believe my players could say that. We'll miss our seniors immensely but it is time to reload for next season."