Royalton tops Long Prairie

Long Prairie-Grey Eagle opened its season on the road Thursday in Royalton on a hot and muggy night.

The Thunder were looking for their first win since 2005, while the Royals were hoping to improve from last season after they finished 5-6. The Royals were able to win the defensive battle by shutting out the Thunder and winning the season-opener 26-0.

The first half proved to be a true defensive battle, with Royalton scoring late to take a 6-0 lead into halftime.

The Thunder rushed for 76 yards in the first half but were plagued by poor field position, untimely turnovers and penalties.

In the second half, the Thunder came out and moved the ball for three first downs but ended up fumbling the ball away. Royalton converted the turnover into points by scoring their second touchdown of the night.

The heat and humidity really started to take a toll on the players in the second half as players continuously needed to be replaced on both sides of the ball.

The Royals were able to break one long run late in the third quarter to seal the game away.

Thunder running back John Dinkel led the way with 14 carries for 56 yards. Zach Warzecha and Tony Peterson battled all night long on both the offensive and defensive lines. Cody Stewart and Ben Frieler led the team in tackles.

“We will need to build on the positive things from the opener and eliminate turnovers and penalties to win against West Central next week,” head coach Gary Graham said.

The Thunder will play their home opener Friday when they take on West Central Area.

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