July 05, 2025
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NV, Lenox pick up big wins; Murray falls in opener

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Nodaway Valley's Hunter Ernst runs past a Central Decatur defender during Friday's win over the Cardinals. The win is the first for the Wolverines since 2017. (Contributed photo)

Below are area scores compiled from Friday night's Week 0 games. This article may update as stats are finalized and become official.

Nodaway Valley 32, Central Decatur 24

LEON - Nodaway Valley snapped an 11-game losing streak thanks to Clay Hohertz’s leaping catch in the end zone with :00.8 left in the game.

A game that was tied at 24-24 with 4:55 remaining in play, it remained tied long enough for Nodaway Valley to have possession in the red zone with just over a minute left in play.

Hohertz had just dropped what could have been a touchdown catch on the previous play, setting up the Wolverines to get one more play off before time expired.

During a timeout, first-year NV coach Flynn Heald told Hohertz he was giving him a second chance.

Hohertz high-pointed Nathan Russle's pass in the corner of the end zone, securing Nodaway Valley's first win since 2017.

Stanton/Essex 40, Murray 6

MURRAY – Murray was unable to hold back the Vikings Friday night as the Mustangs dropped their Week 0 matchup 40-6.

Murray had problem moving the chains early while Stanton/Essex took to the score column early with a combination of Keygan Day and Colton Thornburg – the difference maker as the Day hit Thornburg for 150 yards and three touchdowns, all coming from 30 or more yards from the end zone.

Murray put up its first touchdown after allowing 24 points across the first three quarters. The score came off a 4-yard Reece Held reception.

Freshman Zack Belden passed for 138 yards, throwing two interceptions and one TD. Colton Siefkas also saw action under center, passing for 46 yards and two interceptions.

Running back Chance Lecy tallied 87 yards on the ground for the Mustangs.

Along with the offensive score, Held intercepted a Keygan Day pass and had eight solo tackles, including one for a loss. Jace Rodecker also had six solo tackles.

UP NEXT – Murray will enjoy the benefits of an early bye week, taking next Friday off. The Mustangs will be back in action Sept. 6 on the road against Collins-Maxwell.UP NEXT – The Wolverines are back in action next Friday as they will head down to Mount Ayr for a Week 1 clash. Game time is at 7 p.m.

Lenox 48, Beford 32

LENOX – The Back Forty Battle is staying in Lenox this year Taylor County rivals Lenox and Bedford duked it out in a 48-32 final in favor of the hosting Tigers.

The offense for Lenox moved the chains efficiently, as Drew Venteicher ran for 166 yards and 3 TDs; Colton Gordon added 101 yards and 2 TDs plus a 31-yard TD reception from Cullen Wood.

On the other side of the ball, Venteicher added three solo and six assisted tackles, plus two fumble recoveries. Johnathan Weaver added four solo and two tackle assists.

Wood added a pick-six to his stat line to accompany his 34-yard touchdown pass to Brad Larson in the game.

For Bedford, Jacob French had a 52-yard rushing touchdown and 60-yard kick return TD. Eli Morris ran back the 2nd half kickoff 72 yards for TD. Cooper Nally also passed to Brennan Sefrit for 13-yard touchdown.

UP NEXT – Like Murray, Lenox will also take a bye week and not play next Friday. The Tigers are due back in action Sept. 6 on the road against Sidney.

Larry Peterson, Tyler Hetu and Scott Vicker contributed to this story.