Storm score 35 in first quarter, roll Scorpions 49-3 in shortened road win

FARMINGTON — Two weeks ago, Storm linebacker Troy Logan told the Observer that Cleveland has only one thing on its mind headed into district play.

“Win.”

But on Friday night in Farmington, they didn’t just win.

They dominated.

A 35-point first quarter from the Storm silenced the Scorpions early, taking the lightning-shortened contest 49-3 to improve to 5-1 on the year and 1-0 in district.

It was the Jordan Hatch show early at Hutchinson Stadium, throwing multiple touchdown passes in the first quarter alone. Hatch and Co.'s opening offensive onslaught included a 41-yard beauty of a ball from the senior quarterback to senior wideout Connor Steele for a touchdown.

One of the bigger stories out of Cleveland’s win over Pebble Hills two weeks ago was the loss of receiver Evan Nanez due to injury. Nanez, who led Storm receivers in touchdowns, has left a hole in the offense.

But quickly, head coach Robert Garza and the offense have found ways to fill it.

Darius Steverson and Karson Weddle, usually known for highlight plays on the basketball court, played key roles in the road victory. Steverson tallied a multi-touchdown night for his first breakout game of the year, as his gridron and hardwood teammate Weddle would take a kickoff 70-plus yards for a return touchdown.

Let Friday be a reminder: Even with injuries, the Storm always have talented weapons up their sleeve. After their loss to Las Cruces in early September, Cleveland has outscored its opponents 91-20 in their past two games.

With the games meaning even more now with district play underway, the Storm may be hitting their stride at the perfect time.

Cleveland will return home next week to Lightning Bolt Stadium to face off against the Cibola Cougars. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. on Oct. 10.

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