NEW LONDON — Loudonville was a rude visitor at New London on Friday night.
The Redbirds methodically ground out 339 yards rushing to bully their way to a 55-13 road victory.
Quarterback Chayse Wright compiled 189 yards of total offense and four touchdowns to lead the way. Running back Collin Caley gained 140 yards rushing and added a pair of TDs.
“Our offensive line did a great job tonight opening up running lanes for all our backs and we were able to take advantage of that tonight,” said Loudonville coach Keith Lemke. “It was great to see Chayse Wright running the ball well this evening, especially with teams keying on Collin.”
Caley’s 5-yard TD run gave Loudonville a 7-0 first-quarter lead and he added another one in the second period. Wright tossed a 30-yard TD strike to Trenton Gaines for a 22-0 halftime bulge.
“Defensively, we played a great game,” Lemke said. “We’re really happy with the pressure we generated and the turnovers we took advantage of. Overall, a great defensive performance, great team win.”
The ‘Birds dominated the second half, too. Wright ran for three touchdowns in the third quarter and Caley had an 80-yard kickoff return to make it 49-13 heading to the final period with a running clock
The Wildcats got a pair of TDs on two electrifying plays by sophomore Henry Thomas, a 90-yard fumble return and a kickoff return, both in the third period.
Ian Mack’s 29-yard kickoff return completed the scoring for Loudonville.
“I’m really pleased with how our team has played on the road these first two weeks. We made a couple uncharacteristic mistakes in the first half, but responded really well in the second half,” Lemke said.
“We have preached over and over again that we have to finish games and we were able to do that tonight. Moving forward, we will continue to need production from all our skill guys.”
Loudonville is 2-0 heading into next week’s showdown with undefeated, two-time state finalist Hillsdale. That will be the Redbirds’ home opener.
The Wildcats (0-2) are at Waynedale next week.