Iola High head coach Doug Kerr knows that weather conditions had something to do with 12 fumbles by the Cherryvale High Chargers Friday night. The Chargers lost four of those fumbles to the Mustangs.
But both teams had to deal with the rain and soggy field conditions. The Mustangs turned the ball over just three times — two fumbles and an interception.
“Our defense held them to just seven yards until that last drive. That’s pretty good for the first game of the season under a new system,” Kerr said.
The Mustangs opened the 2012 season Friday at home with a 22-0 win.
Defensively, Jacob Rhoads recorded seven solo tackles and two assisted tackles for Iola. Eric Heffern had four solo stops and seven assisted tackles plus a quarterback sack.
Alex Bauer recovered two fumbles and Devin Burton had a fumble recovery. Adam Kauth made an interception.
Bryce Misenhelter and Tyler McIntosh each had five unassisted tackles.
The Mustangs prepare this week for their first Pioneer League game. They travel to Osawatomie Friday to take on the Trojans.
Defensive Statistics from Cherryvale game:
Tackles: Eric Heffern 4 solos, 7 assisted, 1 quarterback sack; Jacob Rhoads 7 solos, 2 assisted; Bryce Misenhelter 5 solos, 2 assisted; Tyler McIntosh 5 solos, 1 assisted; Kaden Macha 4 solos, 3 assisted; Devin Burton 3 solos, 2 assisted, one fumble recovery; Cole Morrison 2 solos, 1 assisted; Alex Bauer 2 solos, 2 fumble recoveries; Stephen McDonald 1 solo, 3 assisted; Adam Kauth, 1 solo, 1 assisted, 1 interception; John Whitworth 1 solo, 1 assisted; Eric Maxwell, 3 assisted.
