Turnovers key in Spartan loss to Boonville

The Moberly Spartans played an outstanding game of football last Friday at home versus their conference rival Boonville. Coming off their shutout win over Marshall last week, Moberly’s defense seemed to be running on all cylinders with another solid performance. The Spartan defense only surrendered 13 points to a Boonville team who, coming into the game, had averaged nearly 30 points a game. Although the Spartan defense was in full flight, their offense had their struggles and were unable to notch a victory, falling 13-7.

Moberly’s loss was largely attributed to turnovers, including one on their final offensive drive which ended the game. The Spartans led in most offensive categories and collected over 100 total yards more then the Pirates. However, they failed to lead in the crucial stat that often decides the winner of games, that being the turnover ratio. Moberly’s -3 turnover ratio made Friday night’s game another example that turnovers lose football games.

Individual stats for the Spartans were led by quarterback Ben Stoecklein who was 13-20 for 124 yards throwing 1 touchdown and also threw 1 interception. Receivers were led by Chris Ewens who hauled in 8 passes for 96 yards and a touchdown followed by Anthony Cedillo who had 3 receptions for 19 yards and Chase Roberts, who had 2 receptions for 9 yards. Anthony Cedillo led the rushing march with 13 carries for 62 yards followed by Dakota Halley with 7 carries for 29 yards and Josh Cedillo 4 carries for 31 yards. Anthony led the defensive side with his 15 unassisted tackles with a total of 20 for the game followed by Shaq Golden and Christian McCluskey who each helped bring down 13 Pirates in the game. Josh Cedillo also had 1 interception.

The Moberly loss brings their season record to 4-3 as they look forward to this week facing Mexico (also 4-3).