Knights shut out Eagles for homecoming win

Fremont-Mills sprinted out to a 40-0 first half lead and never looked back in a 68-0 victory over Clarinda Academy on Homecoming Night in Tabor Friday.

The Knights (2-1) opened district play with the win over the Eagles thanks to its dominating run game and a defense that forced four turnovers and did not allow a point for the first time this season.

With the homecoming festivities and his team jumping out to an early lead, Fremont-Mills’ Coach Jeremy Christiansen said he was happy how his team maintained their focus throughout.

“That’s always a difficult thing, but we threw some different things at them just trying to keep them going and I think they did a good job,” Christiansen said after the game.

The Knights finished with a season-high in points and total yards (397) in the win. Quarterback Mason Vanatta was an efficient 8-of-10 throwing for 85 yards and two touchdowns. He added 50 yards rushing and another score. Seth Malcom scored three TDs rushing to go with his 56 yards and Jaeger Powers picked up 68 yards and a touchdown.

Malcom paced the defense with 10 tackles, including five for losses.

After a rough start in their season-opener – a 45-27 loss to Exira-EHK the Knights led 20-0 at one point – Christiansen said he likes the progress he’s seen from his team in their last two wins.

“We’re definitely moving in the right direction,” he said. “We just have to keep moving forward.”

Fremont-Mills goes on the road to face Essex Friday.