Newcastle opened its 2023 season with a non-district victory against Weatherford Friday night.
The Racers won 34-14, either outscoring or matching the Eagles, with a 10-0 first quarter, a 7-7 second quarter, a 10-0 third quarter, and a 7-7 fourth quarter.
Head Coach Jeff Brickman said sophomore TJ Bradford had a 70-yard run and junior Jaron Webb recovered an onside kick on the hop for a 50yard run to spur on the Racers. Defensively, the Racers forced two turnovers, with one of those being inside the five-yard line.
Bradford had a 100-yard plus game, with 130 yards on eight carries, and senior Toby Batchelder kicked two field goals, one was a 40-yarder.
Junior wide receiver/defensive back Rex Heskew was named the player of the game, while senior wide receiver Aden Shumard was recognized for his offensive play. Junior Trey Burchett, a defensive back, was recognized on defense, and Webb for his play on special teams.
The Racers are scheduled to play at home against the Plainview Indians this Friday. Brickman said Newcastle played against them last year “and it was a hard fought contest.” He expects another good game this year.
Newcastle plays at Woodward on September 15, and then returns to “The Castle” on September 22 for a homecoming game against Tecumseh.
