March 29, 2024

Newton junior varsity loses at Knoxville

KNOXVILLE — Newton High’s junior varsity football team wasn’t able to overcome a 14-0 first-half deficit Tuesday in its season opener at Knoxville. Knoxville defeated Newton, 22-7.

Jordan Norvell, who rushed for more than 200 yards in the game, scored on a 21-yard run with 5:57 left in the third quarter for Newton. Josh Gulling kicked the extra point to make it 14-7.

Knoxville scored its final touchdown on a short field after Newton failed to covert on a fourth-down play.

The Cardinals finished with almost 400 yards of total offense. Several promising drives in the game were hampered by Cardinal penalties. Keith Steinbach rushed for 65 yards in the second half for Newton.

“Although we lost, a lot was gained from this experience,” said Tom Weeks, NHS assistant coach. “A number of young players stepped forward and gave it a 110-percent effort.  From a defensive and offensive prospective everyone contributed. You can’t ask for more than that. It’s always nice to win. But, junior varsity football is about learning, and preparing for the next level.  I think we did that.”

Contact Sports Editor Jocelyn Sheets at (641) 792-3121 Ext. 6535 or jsheets@newtondailynews.com.