In week one of the 2021 football season, your Hornets took on the #25 Raytown Bluejays. A team led by explosive running back, Zahmari Gary and towering lineman, Logan Reichert.

Raytown’s discipline was evident from their first drive, capped off by a big run to open the scoring up 7-0. After multiple defensive stands by both teams, J’Len Friar put the Hornets on the board and Williams delivered with an extra point.

Soon after, Raytown picked up big gains on the ground, headed by effective reads from quarterback Nate Whitebear. On the ensuing possession, a frantic JJ Johnson attempted to get rid of a pass out of bounds and was picked off deep in NKC territory. Raytown would capitalize and go into halftime with a 21-7 lead.

The Hornets showed signs of life to start the third quarter, scoring quickly on JJ Johnson’s first touchdown as a Hornet, a 4-yard scramble to cut into the lead. Raytown quickly recovered, however, and Gary lengthened the lead back to 28-14. Raytown would cap the night off with another touchdown, this time in the air. The final score: Raytown 35 – 14 NKC.

The story of this game is one of stagnation. The new look NKC offense struggled, as most new offenses do, and our powerful defense showed weakness. Fret not, the game moves on. Every mistake is a lesson, and with Coach Douglas at the helm, there is no question NKC football will be back in week 2.

Next week, the Hornets travel to St. Joe to take on a conference rival, in the Central Indians. Coverage information is unclear at this time. Follow @N2SportsNKCHS for further updates!