By Don Nelson
Liberty Bell High School’s home field debut in its first year of eight-man football ended with a 26-10 loss to Inchelium on Friday (Sept. 18), but coach Steve White said he’s satisfied with his team’s progress.
“The game was very competitive. The boys did great. I could not be prouder,” White said. “We got our first look at a well-established eight-man football program. It was a learning experience for myself and our players. Now we can go back and start preparing for the Columbia Hunters.”
A Liberty Bell drive early in the game ended at the one-yard line with a score. But the Mountain Lions got on the board first when Derek Alumbaugh tackled Inchelium’s quarterback in the end zone for a safety.
The Hornets scored the next 26 points before Liberty Bell put up points again in the fourth quarter when quarterback Alumbaugh tossed a touchdown pass to Andrew Reggiatore, and Jacob McMillan then ran for a two-point conversion to make it 26-10. A late Mountain Lion drive ended close to the goal line.
“He is an extraordinary athlete,” White said of Alumbaugh. “We are lucky to have him.”
The coach also cited the play of Zane Herrera. “He is the best lineman we have, and always gives 100 percent on every play,” White said.
Liberty Bell travels to Columbia on Friday (Sept. 25) for a 7 p.m. kickoff.
