Bulldogs improve, fall to Lions
The Iola Bulldogs suffered a 15-6 loss at home to the Lovelady Lions Friday, Oct. 10. Iola will have a week off before beginning district play against Snook on Sept. 24. Examiner photo by Saul Coronilla
The Iola Bulldogs hosted the Lovelady Lions Friday, Sept. 10, and despite a much-improved defense, offensive struggles were the difference in the 15-6 loss.
Iola’s defense showed great effort allowing its lowest point total of the season including three takeaways and an impressive stop on their own 3-yard line. “When you are getting turnovers, you are giving yourself a chance,” said Iola Head Coach Kerry Bamburg, when asked about his team’s defensive effort.
Another thing that helped the Bulldogs throughout the game was undisciplined play from the Lions. The Lions saw two touchdowns to open the game negated to penalties. On the night they racked up 10 penalties for 135 yards.
Iola’s offense continued to struggle to move the ball downfield. The Bulldogs have been able to find the end zone early in games but struggle scoring late in games. Iola has key players that play on both sides of the ball. “Fatigue sets in but that can’t be a factor,” said Bamburg. “We have to be able to move the ball and put points on the board.”
Senior Coy Elliott accounted for the Bulldogs lone score, a 3-yard run. He finished with 45 yards on 12 carries. Kyle Dreher rushed for 78 yards on 11 carries. Wesley Alexander led the Bulldog defense with 18 tackles, three tackles for a loss and a quarterback hurry.
The Bulldogs will be able to get needed rest going in to their bye-week before setting their eyes on district play.
Iola (0-3) will play their first district game of the season after their bye week, hosting rival Snook (1-2) Friday, Sept. 24, at Bulldog Stadium with kickoff slated for 7 p.m.