The Ellsworth Bearcats traveled to Hoisington Friday night to face the Cardinals. The Cardinals defeated the ‘Cats 37-7, never letting up from start to finish.

The Bearcats won the coin toss, electing to defend first. Hoisington began with possession on its own 27 yard line. The Cardinals dominated the first quarter beginning with a 18 yard touchdown pass. The PAT attempt was blocked. After a quick punt by Ellsworth, the Cardinals responded with another pass for a 15 yard touchdown. The extra point attempt was again blocked. The quarter ended with a fumble by Ellsworth’s Dawson Kratzer, giving Hoisington possession of the football once again.

The second quarter began with an interception by the Bearcats in Hoisington’s endzone. However, the Cardinals responded right back with an interception of their own. Following the interception, Hoisington added more points to the scoreboard with a 1 yard touchdown run. The half ended with some defensive stops. Hoisington had a 18-0 lead going into halftime.

Ellsworth began with the ball in the second half. About halfway through the quarter, the Hoisington defense completed its second interception of the night. Quickly after, the Cardinals scored again with a 17 yard touchdown run. Hoisington was not finished yet, though. They added more points to their score with a 60 yard pass for touchdown. The extra point attempt was blocked.

The final quarter was a quick one. The quarter began with another Cardinal touchdown and successful point after. The Bearcats added their first and only points of the game with a 60 yard touchdown run by Kratzer. The PAT kick by Dayton Davis was good. Hoisington ran the clock down to finish the game, beating the Bearcats, 37-7.

The loss gave the ‘Cats their fourth loss of the season, making their overall record 1-4, and their district record 1-2.

Coach Josh Homolka and his squad will come back home to face the Phillipsburg Panthers on Friday night. The Panthers are 3-3 on the season. Kickoff is at 7 p.m.