Union had a reason to rally on Friday night. All community and family members fighting against cancer were honored as their names scrolled across the video board. The game was dedicated to them. Two champions were honored at the pregame coin flip. Coach Adam Gassman who has fought lymphoma in his past and former Dysart-Geneseo quarterback Terry “Toro” Ewoldt that fights the fight now with cancer. Pictured above is Terry shaking hands with an official (courtesy of photographer John Vaughan, Sr.).

The Knights defense led the way again with a shutout endangered by an Oelwein interception but Michael Ahrendsen and Jordan Schmitz ran it down inside the five. The defense held and from that point on Union dominated. Oelwein had four first downs and 66 yards of total offense. The Knights were led in tackles by Brock Hadachek (7) and four others with five each: Daycen Douglass, Jace Glenn, Drew Edwards, Quention Kinsel, and Ryan Miller. Jordan Schmitz had a fumble recovery returned for seven yards while Edwards and Kinsel each had an interception.

Dakota Hora had a busy night kicking off for 498 yards in 10 kicks and also 8 of 9 in PATs with one bad snap/hold that was missed. The Knights did not punt on the evening. Hadachek also had a blocked punt that was returned by Oelwein for a first down after controversy whether the ball was behind the LOS or not.

Offensively nine different ball carriers were used and eight of the ball carriers had at least three attempts. Six different Knights put points on the scoreboard. Sophomore Brit Rolison led the way with 12 carries for 100 yards and four TDs. Sophomore Kaleb Roach carried the ball five times for 58 yards. Other TDs were rushes by Jordan Schmitz, Koby Alpers, and Bryce Parker. Troy Hanus was 9 of 12 for 189 yds, 2 TDs, and one interception. Receiving corps were led by senior Dylan Stech with four receptions for 94 yards and two TDs. Alpers and John Boisen each had two receptions and Rolison one.

This Friday the Knights head to Dyersville Beckman for another district game. Varsity starts at 7:30pm.