By Derrick Forsythe, Record Sports Editor
Finally, Wright City was the aggressor on the field, and it was a refreshing experience for the Wildcats following an 0-3 start.After being outmatched physically in the first three contests, Coach Matt Brooks’ team encountered an inferior opponent in Week Four.The Wildcats controlled every aspect of the game in a 40-6 victory, winning the turnover battle for the first time this season.“We were able to turn them over several times,” said Brooks. “Any time you win the turnover battle, you’re going to have a chance to win the game.”Wright City struck early and often, avoiding any chance of a repeat letdown from last season, when the Wildcats surrendered a two-touchdown lead after halftime.This time they controlled the clock with their running game, led by Steven Soltysiak’s two touchdowns.But Wright City also found rare success from its passing attack, with Kyle Lang showing improved accuracy — taking advantage of solid blocking and protection.“We protected well and weren’t running for our lives back there,” said Brooks.Lang connected with Tyler Brittain on a 32-yard touchdown strike with 5:55 remaining in the first quarter.“We came out and took care of business right away,” said Brooks. “We didn’t have a lull.”Soltysiak pushed the Wildcats ahead 13-0 early in the second quarter, before a flurry of fumbles ensued. Van-Far gave up the ball three times, while Wright City fumbled twice within a 10-minute period.“When you’re creating turnovers and opportunities for yourself, you’ve got a pretty good shot at winning,” said Brooks.In the meantime, Soltysiak ran for another nine-yard score midway through the second.The Wildcats closed out the half with a 59-yard touchdown pass from Lang to Ben Randolph, accounting for Wright City’s longest scoring pass play of the season.“Hopefully it’s a little confidence boost in our passing game,” said Brooks.Randolph also showed more accurate kicking ability, finishing perfect on extra-point tries after missing his first attempt.“We’ve been working to get him more involved in the offensive gameplan,” said Brooks. “Once he had a little success kicking too, it took the weight off and do the athletic things he’s capable of.”Randolph also shined on defense, elevating over a pair of receiver to intercept a pass in the second half.The Wildcats continued to dominate during the final two quarters, with Lang scoring on a two-yard run and senior Tim Burks recording his first varsity touchdown on a 45-yard run.“We did a fairly good job of executing, both throwing the ball and running,” added Brooks.Wright City will travel to Bowling Green this Friday, hoping to make it two consecutive victories over the Bobcats.Wright City running back Lamone Davis sheds a tackle during the Wildcats' 40-6 win over Van-Far.
By Derrick Forsythe, Record Sports Editor
