Wolves fall to Beulah to end season
By Neal A. Shipman
Farmer Editor
Watford City wrapped up its 2015 varsity football season with a 3-6 record as the Wolves fell to the Beulah Miners, 42-6, on Wednesday, Oct. 21.
“We played hard but could not match up with the speed and strength of the Beulah Miners,” stated Justin Johnsrud, Wolves’ head coach. “Beulah showed why they are considered one of the top teams in Class AA football.”
In a game that was over in the first quarter, the Miners would score on their first two possessions, while holding the Wolves’ offense completely at bay.
Beulah would lead Watford City, 21-0, at the end of the first quarter, and then tack on three more touchdowns in the second quarter to hold a commanding, 42-0, lead over the Wolves at halftime.
After a scoreless third quarter, Watford City would finally get on the scoreboard late in the fourth quarter.
After marching down the field Kyle Cook would score Watford City’s final touchdown of the game and of the season on a four-yard run. The touchdown capped off a nine play, 63-yard scoring drive.
Beulah dominated the offensive game as the Miners held a 423 to 145 yard advantage in total offense.
In spite of the Wolves’ ending the season with a losing record, Johnsrud was pleased with his players’ attitudes.
“I was really impressed with the players’ effort this season,” stated Johnsrud. “We knew we were going to be young and inexperienced to start the season and we asked the kids concentrate on getting better each and every game. They did a great job doing just that.”
Even when plagued with injuries and other issues, Johnsrud says that his players never lost their focus. And he believes that attitude will be key to next year.
“We battled through injuries and other issues and the kids never let it change their focus,” stated Johnsrud. “We had to shuffle positions and change schemes in the middle of the year, and the attitude and effort of the players never wavered. They came to practice every day and worked hard to improve themselves and our team.”
And Johnsrud gives his seniors credit for the leadership that they provided to the younger teammates.
“The seniors did a great job of leading by example and really setting the tone for everything we did,” stated Johnsrud. “They helped mold our underclassmen and have them headed down the right path for the rest of their high school football careers.”
While next year’s football season may seem like a long way off, Johnsrud believes that nucleus for a good team is already in place.
“We are excited about the players we have returning next season and hope they continue to work as hard in the offseason as they did during the regular season,” stated Johnsrud. “If they continue to work hard, we could be a tough team to deal with next season.”
1st 2nd 3rd 4th Final
Beulah 21 21 0 0 42
Watford City 0 0 0 6 6