By Robert Cole

For The Newberry Observer

Daniel Bannister breaks into the open field.
https://www.newberryobserver.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/web1_Daniel-Bannister-breaks-into-open-field.jpgDaniel Bannister breaks into the open field. Robert Cole | For The Newberry Observer

Dylan Mackeben runs the ball for the Eagles.
https://www.newberryobserver.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/web1_Dylan-Mackeben-runs-the-ball.jpgDylan Mackeben runs the ball for the Eagles. Robert Cole | For The Newberry Observer

GREENWOOD — The field at Greenwood Christian was shrouded in mist last Friday night as the visiting Newberry Academy Eagles arrived. It should have served as an omen, as the home team routed Newberry Academy 70-28.

The Eagles did not start off the game as they had hoped. Greenwood scored on a 51 yard touchdown run on their first offensive play. After the conversion, the score was 8-0 in favor of the Hawks. The Eagles took over deep in their own territory, but seemed to get things going when Tyrese Taylor broke out for a long run.

Unfortunately, the play was called back due to a penalty. Newberry was unable to get a first down and was forced to punt. The Hawks quickly scored again and were now up 16-0. On Newberry’s next two possessions, they had a blocked punt and an interception, both of which led to scores for Greenwood. With the score now 32-0, Newberry had to find a way to answer.

The Eagles put together a 73 yard drive, mostly on the running of Daniel Bannister.Taylor scored on the ground from six yards out, but the conversion failed. With the score now 32-6, Greenwood quickly put to rest any notion of a comeback, scoring two touchdowns to open the second period and pushing the score to 48-6. Both teams would score again before the half. Newberry’s score came on a short pass from Taylor to Landen York.

The second half was condensed as the clock ran under mercy rules, but Newberry managed two more scores: a 65 yard strike from Taylor to York, and a short run by Bannister to close out the game. Taylor finished with 130 yards passing, and 37 yards rushing.

Bannister had 88 yards on the ground, as well as a 30 yard reception. York scored twice and had 109 combined yards rushing and receiving. Dylan Mackeben rushed four times for 20 yards, and Tabb French hauled in two receptions for 19 yards.

The Eagles are in action again this Friday when they travel to Laurens Academy.