Pirates stick to plan

COLUMBIA FALLS — The Polson football team has a game plan and they stick to it: Run the ball like crazy and play swarming, shut-down defense.

That game plan is still working, even after a bye week, as the Pirates executed it to perfection in a 43-20 rout of conference foe Columbia Falls.

Polson came out fast and furious, part of its modus operandi, scoring 22 points before Columbia Falls could even get their offense in a rhythm. Senior running back Tim Rausch added to his impressive season stats, scoring on a one-yard touchdown run to open the scoring.

Next, it was the special teams getting a piece of the action. A blocked punt by junior defensive lineman Riley Grogan resulted in a 22-yard touchdown score. Sophomore quarterback Vince DiGiallonardo scored next on a one-yard touchdown run and the Pirates were up 22-0 in the first quarter seemingly before Columbia Falls or their fans could blink.

“Sometimes when you come out after a bye the kids come out flat but they came out and played at a high intensity level,” head coach Scott Wilson said. “The kids have responded to what we’ve talked about, and that is trying to put pressure on other teams rather than having the pressure put on us.”

Columbia Falls did get on the board in the first quarter with a 35-yard pass play for a touchdown but that was the closest they would get before the Joe Andrews show began. A senior running back, Andrews showed his versatility, scoring on an 18-yard pass from DiGiallonardo and two touchdown runs of 18 and 27 yards, respectively. When all was said and done, Andrews rushed for 190 yards on 17 carries and caught two balls for 29 yards, in addition to the three touchdowns.

“Our offensive line has played so well that any time you have a real solid running attack, the offensive line plays real well,” Wilson said. “The backs also make things happen, making moves and finding the holes that are open for them.”

The win gives the Pirates five in a row and they boast a 5-1 record overall, 2-0 in conference play.

On Friday, Polson will head to Whitefish for another conference battle before ending the regular season with a home game against rival Ronan on Oct. 23.

“We need to control the things we have control over, and cut down on mistakes and turnovers,” Wilson said. “We’re playing two teams that are still looking for possible playoff position just like us. I don’t expect an easy game either week.”