Emotional afternoon ends in seven-point loss for Rebels

Saturday’s conference opener against Hulett wasn’t just another game for the Riverside Rebels.

With it being Military Appreciation Day, team members carried the American flag, the state flag, the POW flag and the flags of the military branches onto the field and drew inspiration from World War II veteran John Gibler who performed the coin toss.

“Throughout the week, we talked with our players about the importance of this game, about honoring those who serve, and about what it means to ‘be the light’ in uncertain times,” said Coach Matthew Jensen. “Our goal was not just to play hard during the game, but to strive every day to be better men, both on and off the field.”

Despite playing inspired ball, the Rebels dropped their second one-score decision in the season’s first three weeks, losing to the Red Devils, 32-25. The Rebels led 13-8 after one and 19-16 at the half but were outscored 16-6 in the third and fourth quarters.

Jensen said he liked the way his team focused on its game plan for Hulett.

“We knew they were a high-powered offense, having scored 70 points the week before,” he said. “They really had a three-headed monster with their quarterback (Kyle Smith), running back (Ben Harrison) and wide receiver (Hudson Reilly). 

“We generally executed our game plan effectively, but their athleticism allowed them to make key plays.”

The Rebels’ leading ground gainers included Jaxson Womack, who had 10 carries for 52 yards and a touchdown; Paul Stone, two for 39 yards and a touchdown, and Corbyn Godfrey, nine for 23 yards and a touchdown.

Through the air, Gavyn Cervantes completed 11-of-20 throws for 140 yards. Eli Jensen hauled in three for 66 yards and a score, while Kenneth McClure caught two for 44 yards.

Jensen said the Rebels “improved on pre-snap penalties and ball security,” but that “further improvement is needed.

“Our offense did generate explosive plays, but we also experienced frustrating stall outs in the red zone a few times,” he said.

Defensive standouts included Stone, three solo tackles, four assisted tackles and a pass breakup; Zack Kuntz, one solo, five assists and one fumble recovery; Godfrey, four solos, eight assists, and McClure, one solo, four assists and one pass break-up.

Despite the loss, Jensen said thanked everyone in the community who made the day so special.

 “There are not many WWII veterans left, and to see (Gibler) walking strong and representing that generation was a powerful reminder of their sacrifices,” said Jense. “This event also held personal meaning for me, as both of my grandfathers served in the Army and Navy during WWII, and my wife is a veteran who served a tour in Bosnia. 

“Because of that, I deeply understand the sacrifices service members and their families make to preserve our freedoms.”

This week

The Rebel coaching staff will focus this week on improving their blocking and consistency through the whistle.

“Eliminating missed blocks will create more explosive plays instead of short gains,” said Jensen.

The Rebels will play their first road game of the season later this week in Baggs against No. 1-ranked Little Snake River.

“Despite not yet getting a win, our team has shown significant improvement over the past month and I am proud of our men,” he said. “We believe our hard work will eventually pay off this season as we prepare to compete against the best in our class. 

“This week, we’re focused on putting our hard hats on and getting to work to put our best game forward.”