Tigers win district opener with fresh faces

Republic jumped all over Springfield Parkview in Friday’s district-opening, 54–0 win at home.
The fast start allowed coach Ryan Cornelsen to work some new players into the lineup, and they delivered. Republic scored on all six offensive possessions in the first half, recovered a fumble in the end zone for a seventh touchdown, and tacked on two more points with a safety in building a 48–0 halftime lead.
“When you come into the game and you feel like you’ve got some momentum but the other team hasn’t won, (you want) your kids to focus and execute and realize it’s about what we do and how we play, not about who we play,” said Cornelsen.
Among the players to get significant varsity action were Tryle Cummins and Kody Norman, who were the top two rushers of the night. Cummins ran for 49 yards and a touchdwon on just three carries. Norman scored two touchdowns and ran for 44 yards on seven carries. Aidan Gregory also scored his first varsity touchdown when he chased down a bad snap on a Parkview punt attempt, jumping on the ball in the end zone for a score.
Cornelsen said it’s rewarding to be able to give more players time on the field on Friday.
“You love it when you can do it. The fact is, everybody works a lot. We put in a lot of time, whether you’re a starter or a backup,” he said. “So my philosophy is, as soon as I can get those guys in, I want to get them in, but then get them success, get them in the end zone and let them make some plays.”
Connor Sandridge scored a touchdown on a 22-yard run early, set up by a fumble recovery by Noah Reese. Ezekiel Meads scored on a two-yard run in the first half. Memphis Maples scored from five yards out, and Gavyn Beckner scored on a two-yard run.
Republic’s defense held Parkview to just 17 total yards (including –25 rushing yards).
The Tigers are 6–4 for the first time since 2015. They’ll travel to Webb City, Friday, for a district semifinal.