Simon Kenton 21, Beechwood 17

The Simon Kenton Pioneers played with spirit and pride en rout to a 21-17 come-from-behind victory over Beechwood at the 15th annual Crosstown Showdown on Friday night at Chlorine Menefee Stadium.

Simon Kenton (2-0) rallied behind a masterful performance by the defense, which shut out the Tigers in the second half and gave the offense time to work. Senior wide out Jared Swanson returned the opening kick of the third quarter back for a 91-yard touchdown. Senior running back Andrew Sampson scored on a 22-yard run early in the fourth quarter to put the Pioneers ahead for good.

Beechwood got on the board first on a 22-yard field goal. The Tigers blocked Simon Kenton’s field goal attempt on the previous drive.

Junior quarterback Brenen Kuntz gave the Pioneers their first lead early in the second quarter after completing a 28-yard TD pass to classmate Grant Wassom. Beechwood answered quickly on the ensuing drive when senior quarterback Cameron Lane hooked up with senior tight end Chris Lightner on a 67-yard TD pass.

The Tigers (0-1) increased their lead to 17-7 after senior running back Gage Erdman galloped 18-yards for the final points of the half. It was the last time Beechwood crossed the goal line.

Kuntz passed for 126 yards with one touchdown and one interception. On 23 attempts, Sampson rushed for 114 yards and a touchdown. Wassom finished the game with three receptions, 67 yards and a TD.

The Pioneers will play host to Pulaski County, while Beechwood travels to Holmes at 7:30 on Aug. 31.