
The Hornet Football team defends their territory once again, winning against the Missouri Southern Lions 63-28.
The Hornets defended Welch Stadium once again, dominating the Missouri Southern Lions on Nov. 4.
Fast-paced from the start, Emporia gained a 14-0 lead. All within the first few minutes of the game, running back DeAndre Thomas scored a two-yard touchdown, and quarterback Braden Gleason initiated a 74-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Tyler Kahmann. Missouri Southern eventually gained their first seven points, to which Emporia answered with another touchdown from Thomas. With just three minutes left of the first quarter, the Hornets were already leading 21-7.
As the second quarter ensued, Gleason and Kahmann collaborated for yet another touchdown, bumping the Hornets up to 28-7. Things began to heat up as defensive back Chris Pope caused a Lion to fumble, prompting defensive end Rylan Miller to snatch up the ball. Eventually, Gleason connected with wide receiver Jalen Varner for an eight-yard touchdown. With the Lions grabbing the ball again, the Hornets gained control with Gleason making a five-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Trenden Collins. This wrapped up the first half with the Emporia State Hornets in a secure position, holding 42-7 lead.
The Lions began the second half with a touchdown of their own, but the Hornets proceeded with their own touchdown thanks to Thomas, making the score 49-14. Missouri Southern followed up with another touchdown just four minutes left in the quarter, ending the third quarter towing behind the Hornets 21-49.
As the final quarter began, the Lions completed a one-yard pass and scored their final points for the game. The Hornets, however, were not done yet. A nine-play, 75-yard drive allowed Thomas to score a touchdown and bring the final score to 63-28.