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BOUNTIFUL — "Get on them from the jump and don't let up at all" was the Bountiful strategy heading into Friday's region matchup against undefeated Northridge, according to senior Connor Clark.
The Redhawks did just that, outscoring the Knights 35-0 in the first half thanks to Clark's punt recovered for a touchdown and 40-yard end zone grab on back-to-back drives in the second quarter.
"We've been working on that in practice and preaching special teams — it's such a critical phase of the game," Bountiful head coach Jason Freckleton said of the punt six. "You can really extend the lead and gain some momentum, so really proud of our guys for executing on all three phases of the game today."
Northridge outscored Bountiful 14-7 in the second half, but the irreversible damage had already been done. Redhawks quarterback Emerson Geilman ran and threw for one touchdown each, and running back Siaki Fekitoa ran all over the Knights, scoring once despite a club on one hand due to a broken metacarpal.
"Ever since the loss to Viewmont our coaches have just been preaching (the importance of starting early) all week, so we just got it done," Fekitoa said of the 35-0 halftime lead.
The loss to crosstown rival Viewmont in Week 4 remains the only blemish on the Redhawks' resume as they look to lead Region 5 "with a target on their back" after last year's 5A state title game appearance.
Bountiful is now tied for second with Northridge and Woods Cross at 2-1 in Region 5 play, behind only undefeated Roy, who the Redhawks will play on the road on Oct. 10.
Northridge welcomes Bonneville to Layton next week, while Bountiful heads to Clearfield, who is winless through three games of region play.
