The Vernon Panthers continued their domination of the Southern Interior Junior Football Conference, upending the host Rutland Voodoos 49-14 Wednesday.
The Cats improved to 7-0 on the season (5-0 in league play) despite playing AAA league competition. The Panther offence was able to have their way in the first half, scoring on all six possessions.
Matthew Reich led the scoring parade, registering two rushing and one receiving touchdown to go along with 103 yards on the ground. Caden Danbrook added two of his own (one rushing and one receiving) and quarterback Zack Smith added one on an 11-yard rush. Kevin Morgan led all receivers with five receptions.
“Kevin is becoming exactly what we envisioned him being able to do for our offence,” said Panther head coach Sean Smith. “He’s a big target that has a huge catching radius and is athletic enough to outrun linebackers in coverage. I am also very impressed with the way his blocking skills are progressing.”
The story of the game was the play of international student Leo Tamez who became the first import player to ever score a touchdown for the Panthers. Tamez hauled in a three-yard TD reception from Smith to end the first half and also registered three tackles as a linebacker. He also took over quarterback duties in the second half – going 2-of-3 for 19 yards, including a 15-yard touchdown pass to Danbrook.
“Leo has been a surprising and outstanding addition to our team as he’s been able to find a role on both offense and defense. He really brings it as a tackler and is getting better every game” added Smith.
Brady Szeman led all defenders with five tackles while Isaiah Ondrik and Danbrook added four apiece. Trent Charlton and Smith each pocketed second-half interceptions.
The Panthers entertain the Salmon Arm Golds in the final league game on Wednesday 3:30 p.m. at the Greater Vernon Athletics Park. The Cats handled the Golds 44-0 in Week 4.