Photo by Kelly Petrin – Isha Davis breaks free for a 62- yard touchdown during Catholic’s 42-12 win over Sale Creek, Thursday at OLPH.

Catholic defeated Sale Creek, 42-12, in the season opener, Thursday at Bill Warren Field on the campus of OLPH.

“The boys worked hard over the summer, but until tonight we hadn’t gelled as a team,” said Catholic Coach Billy Dearing. “Glad we were able to perform so well.”  

Catholic got on the board first when Will Menham scored from 22 yards out. Catholic’s next score was a 12-yard run by speedy running back Isha Davis. George Sam “Big Daddy” Gribben added the conversion. Davis scored again on a 62-yard streak, following Gribben’s downfield blocking.

The score stood 20-0 at the end of the first quarter.

To start the second quarter, Sale Creek had difficulty moving the ball against Catholic’s defense and turned the ball over on downs.  Catholic took over and Davis scored again (following Gribben), this time on a 47-yard run.  Menham added the conversion. The score stood 28-0 at the half.

The teams traded touchdowns in the second half.  Menham broke three tackles en route to a 28-yard touchdown.  Catholic’s final score was a 64-yard run by Trevor Brandenburg.  Patrick Osborne added the two-point conversion, making the final,  42 – 12.

The coaches pointed out the line play of Andrew Petrin, Cal Brown, Ian Scott and Charles Lathram as key to the team’s offensive success.  Petrin also recovered two fumbles.  On defense Jacob Howard and Brock Barasha led Catholic in tackles. 

Catholic’s next contest is Thursday, August 16 at home against Normal Park.

_ Anthony Jackson