Washington County Enterprise-Leader
Cards Defense Saves Game In 14-8 Win
HUNTSVILLE — Farmington coach Mike Adams knew coming in that Huntsville’s front seven on defense would present a challenge, but it was the Cardinal defense saving the day with a goalline stand.
The Cardinals held off a final Eagle drive to force an incomplete pass on fourth- down that came with less than 30 seconds remaining and preserve a 14-8 victory in the season-opener for both teams Friday.
“The strength of their team is their front seven on defense,” Adams said, prior to the game. “They are pretty solid right there.”
Huntsville’s defense made plays early helping the Eagles take an 8-0 lead after recording a safety, followed by an interception, on Farmington’s first two possessions.
Farmington fought back to earn a tie on Keaton Austin’s touchdown toss to Matt Brackett and an Austin throw to runningback Spencer Boudrey for a 2-point conversion.
The game was deadlocked at 8-8 at halftime, but the Cardinals fashioned a scoring drive in the third period with Austin hitting Brackett for a 29-yard score.
Huntsville coach Tommy Tice gambled with an onside kick to start the game, which was recovered by the kicking team, but did not lead to a score. Farmington overcame four turnovers as Austin picked up his first victory as starting quarterback, despite throwing two interceptions.
Farmington’s defense was led by 2011 All-Conference defensive end, Brennan Warren, who had four sacks; Chris Sims, with three sacks; and Chas Turner, with an interception. Senior Cutter Shrum, who transferred from Huntsville, was part of a win against his former teammates.
The Cardinals play their homeopener Friday at Allen Holland Field against West Fork, which lost 24-18 to Gentry last week. Kickoff is at 7 p.m.