Spencer-Columbus football wins over Pittsville at home

The Spencer-Columbus (SC) Rockets took on Pittsville at home in Spencer in their second game of the year last Friday. It was not a blowout win by any means, but the Rockets gradually pulled ahead.

Both teams scored two touchdowns in the first quarter, with one of those for Pittsville coming off an interception. That left Pittsville ahead 14-13 after the first. However, in the second, Pittsville scored just one more touchdown while SC had two, bringing the score to 28-20 in the Rockets’ favor at halftime. In the third, Pittsville picked up eight more points while SC had 14, leaving the score at 42-28. Both teams scored one more in the final frame. SC earned the final victory at 49-34.

Running back and linebacker Jack Hoeper rushed for 441 yards on 33 attempts, scoring 44 of the Rockets’ 49 points.

“Jack Hoeper had a career day. I am really proud of him. He had one of the best offseasons I have ever seen,” said SC coach Jason Gorst. “Our offensive line and skill players had a great night blocking as well. They were able to adjust well throughout the night.

“We have a lot of respect for Pittsville. They are well-coached and their players play hard and do not give up.”

Mac Konieczny threw for 20 yards for the Rockets. Wes Nieman received Konieczny’s pass and was the only receiver to gain yards for SC.

On the defensive side, Mason Dieringer had four solo tackles and four assists. Sam Helgestad had five solo tackles and two assists.

For a photo of this year’s SC football squad, see page 13.

Editor Valorie Brecht contributed to this report.