Elton handles Sicily Island in Class 1A playoff opener

ELTON – The first round of the playoffs finally arrived. In the Class 1A first round, the Elton Indians proved ready for the second season.

The Indians dominated the game from beginning to end in a fight-shortened game to win 44-6 over the Sicily Island Tigers and secure a trip to the second round.

“We played a good first half and had a good third quarter.” Said Elton head coach Doyle Carter. “I’m just disappointed the game ended the way it did.”

The Indians were able to jump out to a quick 14-0 first quarter lead on touchdown runs by Keshawn Lyons and Jeremy Leonard.

Sicily Island found their way onto the board on a one yard touchdown run by Glenn Richards to cut the Elton lead to 14-6.

Elton didn’t wait long to answer with Derrick Finnley returning the ensuing kickoff 76 yards for a touchdown to take the 22-6 lead after the first quarter.

The only score of the second quarter came on a touchdown pass from Lyons to Kervondrick Scott to give Elton the 30-6 lead at halftime.

The Indians continude to build on their lead when Lyons connected with Finnley on a long touchdown pass to extend the lead to 36-6 after the third quarter.

Several players from Sicily Island found themselves ejected from the game at the end of the third quartery thanks to multiple unsportsmanlike conduct penalties.

Elton scored early to start the fourth quarter on a Lyons touchdown run to take the commanding 44-6 lead with eleven minutes left.

A fight ensued with five minutes left. Sicily Island players ran out onto the field, including the three players already ejected from the game, causing the referees to call an end to the game securing the 44-6 victory for Elton.

“We are gonna watch watch the film tomorrow.” Said Coach Carter. “Historically, Jonesboro-Hodge has been a good football program. They are #8 and we are #9 so it’s gonna be a tough game and we will try to make a good game plan.”

Sicily Island head coach Donald Money was unavailable for comment.

In the second round, Elton (7-3) will travel to take on Jonesboro-Hodge (8-3). Sicily Island finishes the season 2-9.