Hiawatha routs Ashton-Franklin Center for second 8-man win

Before his team’s convincing 68-6 win over Ashton-Franklin Center, Hiawatha coach Jason Keneway told his Hawks to cherish every moment of the season.

Keneway, a Genoa resident, had just heard that Genoa-Kingston wasn’t going to be able to play its first Friday night home game of the year, which was going to have homecoming festivities, because of a positive COVID-19 test.

“I told them to be thankful they’re playing on a beautiful night and go out there and play,” Keneway said. “Take a look around and really appreciate it because it’s the last Friday night game some of these guys are going to play. Next Saturday is an afternoon game, so take it all in. It was just terrible what happened to G-K.”

The Hawks (2-3) had a 54-6 lead by halftime. Not only did Jacob Smith, a guard, score the first rushing touchdown of his career, but he also had a reception on a trick play. Quarterback Matt Korb lateraled to Cole Brantley, who tossed it to Smith for the points.

“That was pretty cool,” Keneway said. “He’s been waiting a long time for that touchdown. He does a lot of dirty work and deserves a touchdown.”

Korb threw for three touchdowns and ran for another, Brantley had two rushing touchdowns, including an 88-yard run, and Josue Rubio caught a touchdown. Jacob Sterling, out playing football for the first time, scored on a rush as well.