Pirates rally for big win over Coal Ridge

SILT — The Pirates football team knew going into Friday's night game that they couldn't just assume a victory against Coal Ridge. Friday night only reassured what they already knew, as the Pirates faced much adversity to beat out Coal Ridge 50-21.

Olathe head coach Ryan Corn said the victory was a great test for his team.

"We really fought for the win and had to step up to do what we needed to do," Corn said.

The Pirates struggled early, as Coal Ridge scored on its first drive. Olathe then fumbled on the kickoff return and Coal Ridge recovered the ball on Olathe's 5-yard line.

Coal Ridge led the game only four minutes into the first quarter 14-0. However, the Pirates didn't quit. The second quarter saw Olathe earning 28 points, starting with a Marvin Rivera 2-yard touchdown run. Olathe's  Rivera ran for another touchdown shortly after a touchdown scored by teammate David Rhodes. Rhodes also ran for Olathe's final touchdown in the half to put them up 28-14.

The third quarter only helped Olathe improve. The Pirates' Dylan Markley ran for two touchdowns. Rivera once again ran for touchdown from three yards out, to put Olathe up 50-14.

Coal Ridge managed to score once more in the fourth quarter, but it wasn't enough to curtail Olathe's comeback.

Rhodes rushed for 163 yards on 17 carries. Markley rushed for 98 yards on five carries and had 38 receiving yards, while Rivera carried the ball nine times for 54 yards.

Corn said the victory was great for the team because they proved they could face adversity and get it done.

"We were down and like an axe, these guys kept chopping away slowly and got it done," Corn said.

The Pirates face off at 7 p.m. next Friday on the road against Cedaredge