The Vernon Secondary School (VSS) Panthers continued to show why they are the top senior varsity football team in the province, romping to a 43-3 win over the South Kamloops Titans on Friday, Oct. 25.
Playing away from home, VSS flexed their muscles early, scoring three touchdowns in the opening half.
"Our offence came out firing on all cylinders," said head coach Sean Smith. "Despite facing penalties that put us in tough spots, we managed to keep moving the ball."
The Panthers were penalized nine times for 70 yards, but their offensive efficiency outweighed these setbacks. Quarterback Cole Budgen finished the game with three touchdown passes, completing 12 of 15 throws for 241 yards.
Defensively, the Panthers faced challenges early on, struggling to contain the Titans' rushing attack. However, a crucial interception by cornerback Josh Tonga at the goal line halted a promising Titan drive just before halftime.
"Our defence played with more intensity in the second half," Smith noted. "We adjusted well and did a better job tackling. South Kamloops came out more aggressive, but we found our rhythm."
Ayden McDonald finished the game as the top receiver with five catches for 85 yards and two TD's, while Jonah Lee added a touchdown on 11 carries for 98 yards.
The Panthers improved to 6-0 with the win, clinching the Interior Conference title and the number one overall seed.
"We have an unfortunate scheduling gap with a regular season bye next week followed by another playoff bye," Smith said. "But this will allow us to rest, heal, and prepare for our playoff opponents."
Next up will be a home playoff game on Friday, Nov. 15 from the Greater Vernon Athletic Park against a to be determined opponent.
In other Vernon football action, the Fulton Maroons defeated the Salmon Arm Golds, 26-13. The Maroons are now 2-3 on the season, with one more regular season matchup to go.
