Marianna JV Defeats Walton 10-0 for First Win

9/25/08
By: Sid Riley

Team spirit soared this week for the Marianna JV squad as coach Adam Gray’s squad posted their first victory over Walton in a game played in DeFuniak Springs on Thursday evening. The defense again played a strong game, holding Walton to only 91 yards of total offense, with 71 of those from the line of scrimmage. The defense scored the first two points of the game when they backed the Walton team up to the goal line and then a fumble recovery in the end zone by Walton resulted in a safety.
The offense struggled through the first half, never putting together a meaningful drive, even though the team was augmented by some freshmen players added from the varsity which was idle this week. This included the added threat of running back Chris Bowers. In total, the offensive effort produced 215 yards, with 169 of those from the line of scrimmage.
The offense was much improved in their execution, as was demonstrated by only four penalties being incurred for a loss of only 20 yards. Play selection was still limited, and no passes were thrown during the game by the Bulldog yearlings. Walton had six penalties for 40 yards.
Marianna broke the game open early in the fourth quarter when quarterback Ryan Riley scampered 50 yards on a quarterback bootleg, down to the Walton 15. Two plays later Chris Bowers scored on a 11 yard run. Riley ran the extra point making the score 10-0.
Walton desperately attempted to muster a final drive, but fell short around mid field as the game ended. Marianna JV’s had their first victory of the season.