Vandals’ offensive explosion leads to two consecutive wins 

By Harper Wines

Wanting to ensure its record stayed win-heavy, the Eureka Vandals football team came out strong against both the favored Carlin Railroaders and the Virginia City Muckers.

The Railroaders had only one loss on the season and were the conquerors of teams such as Pyramid Lake, who the Vandals had lost to the week prior. With the game heavily in Carlin’s favor, Eureka football had its work cut out for it. 

Despite the expected advantage, the Vandals vanquished the Railroaders handily, with a strong offensive effort from Jace Kniefel, Dean Benson and trusty quarterback Joseph Minoletti. The Vandals eventually left the field with a shining 46-14 win on the scoreboard, and a 4-3 record. 

The Vandals rode the high of the Carlin win straight into another against Virginia City. With more impressive offensive action from Benson and Kniefel, the Vandals scored 54 points, a record high for the season. 

In a break from league play, Eureka football will take on Round Mountain on Friday, Oct. 18. The Knights are in a different league but bring a similar 4-3 record to the showdown against the Vandals. Kniefel, a leading scorer for the Vandals, will not be playing due to a recent injury, giving younger members of the Vandal squad an opportunity to fill the shoes that will be permanently empty next season. 

A win during Friday’s game, while not necessary for their standings, will help them bring momentum into their next matchup against Mineral County. The Serpents currently hold the No. 1 spot in the 1A West league standings and the most comfortable position heading into the playoffs.