Owen football team claims 1st home victory of season at homecoming game

The Owen High football team took its first home win Oct. 8 with a victory over Rosman at the school's homecoming game. 

"Feels good to get the fans to be able to finally see this, see the kids to play at their full potential," said Owen coach Brint Russell. "It's an honor to leave here with a head held high."

The Warhorses served a significant defeat to the Tigers, 50-7. 

The Warhorses started the first quarter with two rushing touchdowns by running back Briggs Barker. The senior finished with 117 yards. 

Another Owen touchdown, from quarterback Alex Sanchez, put the Warhorses up 20-0 early in the second quarter. Rosman scored its only touchdown on a punt return soon after. 

Owen running back Kameron Moore responded with a 45 yard touchdown run. A successful 2-point conversion by one of the team's seasoned leaders, Eli Lanter, gave the Warhorses a 26-7 lead. 

Russell said the offense has been working on ball security, reading the defense to initiate counter plays and take advantage of openings. 

"We're still working on throwing the ball effectively," Russell said. "That's one thing we still need to work on that we're going to need down the road."

Sanchez started as quarterback for Owen, throwing two completions, passing for 33 yards, and rushing 59 yards. While he threw one interception, Sanchez had two picks on defense. 

Owen running back Cadyn Cook ended the game with two touchdowns, the second after a Sanchez interception. The fourth quarter saw a final push from players on the Owen team who don't often get the spotlight. However, the game ended with no additional scoring.

"We had a group of kids in practice who work really hard. They don't get a lot of playing time," Russell said. "They got a chance to play."