The Okanagan Sun scored early and often against the visiting Westshore Rebels on Saturday, rolling to a 78-7 victory in the B.C. Football Conference season opener for both teams.
The Sun turned a 40-0 first quarter lead into a 50-0 advantage by halftime and put on a clinic, spreading the ball around on offence and stifling the Rebels on defence. NIne different players scored touchdowns for the Sun in the win, including Kory Nagata, who went over twice and led the Kelowna squad in rushing on the day with 89 yards.
Using a unique rotating three-quarterback system designed by head coach J.C. Boice, the Rebels could not get untracked against the Sun's smothering coverage. Incumbent starter QB Hunter Lake completed six of nine passes for 44 yards and ran for a team-leading 42 yards, scrambling when he couldn't find an open receiver.
Talyn Davies and Ashton McKinnon also saw reps under centre, with McKinnon eventually seeing the most time at the position. He finished with 92 yards passing, connecting on seven of 19 attempts.
It was Lake, however, who found Alex Wright – a converted quarterback from Sooke who seems to be finding a niche at receiver – for the Rebels' only touchdown in the third quarter.
Defensively, Westshore's Cody Wist hauled in two interceptions, while Jordan Goertzen led the way with six tackles.
The Rebels look to regroup this week as they prepare for their home opener, the red-and-white game this Saturday (Aug. 1) against the always-tough Vancouver Island Raiders. Kickoff is 7 p.m. at Westhills Stadium and fans are encouraged to wear their Rebels gear or anything red and white to show your support for the team.
editor@goldstreamgazette.com