The Weyburn Comprehensive School Eagles football team kicked off their 2024 season with a resounding 24-3 victory over the Yorkton Regional School Raiders on Friday night in Yorkton. The defending 5A provincial champions, the Eagles were looking to claim a win in Yorkton for the first time in years, and their strong defense made it happen under the Friday Night Lights.
A Defensive Masterclass
The Eagles' defense stole the show, recording a staggering six interceptions, two of which were returned for touchdowns. They effectively shut down the Raiders' offense, keeping them out of the red zone all game. Yorkton's only points came from a field goal in the first quarter.
The Eagles Take Flight
While the defense dominated, the offense also contributed significantly. Haydin Buehler led the Eagles with two touchdowns, including a pick-six in the first quarter that put them up 7-3. Max Vennard added another touchdown in the fourth quarter, sealing the victory with a defensive interception returned for a touchdown.
A Tight First Half
The game started off with a defensive struggle, with both teams finding it difficult to establish a rhythm. Yorkton's early field goal gave them a 3-0 lead, but Buehler's interception and touchdown swung the momentum in favor of the Eagles. The Eagles added a safety before halftime, giving them a 9-3 lead heading into the break.
Extending the Lead in the Third
The Eagles had a chance to extend their lead in the third quarter but fell short in the Yorkton red zone. However, a second interception by Max Vennard gave them another opportunity, and Nolan Uhren found Buehler for a touchdown pass, putting Weyburn up 16-3.
Closing Out the Victory
In the fourth quarter, the Eagles' defense continued to dominate, keeping Yorkton's offense in check. While the offense missed a field goal attempt, they added a rouge to their score. The game ended with Vennard's second interception for a touchdown, securing a 24-3 win for the Eagles.
Looking Ahead
The Eagles will now turn their attention to their next game, a road matchup against the Balgonie Griffins in Regina on Thursday night. They'll then host their first home game of the season on Tuesday, September 24th, against the Moose Jaw Peacock Tornadoes.
The victory over the Raiders is a promising start to the season for the Eagles, and their strong defensive performance gives them confidence heading into their upcoming games. The Eagles have established themselves as a force to be reckoned with, and their journey towards another provincial title is well underway.
