OAKWOOD — A big rivalry, and a chance to make a statement, were just what West Hall football needed.
The Spartans rebounded in style from last week's scoreless opener with an emphatic, 59-7 win over old foe Johnson in the Battle of Oakwood -- their fifth straight success in the series.
"It was important for us to play well and execute the game plan; last week we played hard but we did not execute, so we needed to show we could do that," West Hall coach Tony Lotti said. "We played very well, and I'm very happy for my seniors, who have never lost a Battle of Oakwood."
The Spartans (1-1) pounced for three first quarter touchdowns and never looked back, take a 21-0 lead after the opening 12 minutes that stretched to 45-0 at the half.
West Hall finished with 220 yards rushing, including 84 yards and two touchdown runs for Jeremiah Prather. Cooper Adams also scored on two touchdown runs.
Meanwhile, the West Hall special teams and defense also played a key role, as the Spartans started eight drives inside the Johnson 40-yard line. The Knights (0-2), meanwhile, never started a drive beyond their own 29-yard line.
"I'm very pleased with the way special teams played tonight," Lotti said. "I've learned that this team is going to fight for 48 minutes. If we can just get the execution to keep improving I'm liking the direction of this team."
West Hall will look to keep rolling next week when the Spartans play host to Washington-Wilkes.
Johnson will look to bounce back at Banks County next week.
