It’s been 12 years since Apollo got off to a 3-0 start, but that’s exactly where they find themselves after a 21-18 win over McLean County Friday night.
A slow-going opening quarter featured both teams driving deep into enemy territory, though neither the Eagles nor the Cougars were able to find the end zone. Both teams turned the ball over on downs after long possessions.
The Eagles were able to capitalize early in the second quarter when an interception by Sam Parm set up the first scoring drive. Gage Hayden reeled in a 30-yard pass from Colby Clark before Mariano McKenzie ran in the initial touchdown for Apollo.
The quarter ended without any more action, but the Eagles doubled their lead on the first play out of the locker room. A 70-yard kick return by Brandon Husk put the Eagles up 14-0.
The final score by Apollo was set up by a big defensive play — Cameron Baker caused a Cougar fumble that was recovered by Logan Weedman. McKenzie added his second rushing touchdown to put the Eagles up 21-0.
The Cougars gained momentum at the end of the third quarter when they got on the board with a rushing touchdown from Noah Baldwin. The Cougars continued their charge into the fourth quarter after running back Peyton Caraway carried the ball in for a 50-yard touchdown. The two-point conversion was no good, leaving the score at 21-12.
Late in the fourth quarter, Apollo had another turnover on downs to give the Cougars another chance to score. Fullback Jacob Miller was able to find paydirt, though the two-point attempt failed again. The Eagles took a knee to run out the clock for a victory.
Apollo goes back on the road at 7 p.m. Friday when they play at Butler County.
