PETERSBURG — Starting fast and taking control of the Sectional 40 opener was key for Linton-Stockton High School’s football team Friday night.

The Miners entered the contest looking for success after an 1-8 regular season and being an underdog in sectional play for the first time in many years.

Mission accomplished.

miner captains tyler franklin (54), Tanner Scharbrough (61), renn cottingham (4), trenten crynes (57). photo courtesy of conartist creative media.

Coach Brian Oliver’s team stormed to a 28-6 lead after the first quarter and never looked back in a 62-0 victory.

Just how dominate were the Miners?

They had 19 first downs compared to just two for the Chargers, and outgained the hosts in total yardage, 415 to 25.

“Coming out fast and playing well from the start really set the tone for the entire game,” Oliver said. “Plus, it got the momentum on our side as well.”

Momentum was created by numerous big-strike plays.

Five of Linton’s touchdowns came on plays of more than 20 yards, including a 69-yard punt return by Tanner Scharbrough, and a 79-yard pass from Espn Graves to Ivan Montgomery.

“We really worked on our passing game. Espn Graves tossed five TD passes, three of them were to Ivan Montgomery,” Oliver said. “The goal was to work on our protection and build the confidence in our passing game.”

Graves was 7 of 10 for 191 yards. Austin Trabant also had a touchdown toss for the Miners, an 8-yarder.

The Miners had 10 different players rush the ball for a total of 216 yards.

miner seniors tyler franklin (54) and harrison james (11). photo courtsey of conartist creative media.

Oliver noted the victory validated a strong week of practice, and the determination to finish the season on a positive note in tournament play.

“It was a fun night. The boys really needed a game like this. Everyone got to play, and several players scored,” Oliver explained. “Having the senior linemen run the ball made it even more exciting for all. Hearing the boys celebrate and laughing is what we all need this time of year.”

The Miners will continue Sectional 40 play Friday, Oct. 30, against Tell City. The game will be played at Roy Williams Field.

“We have to continue to eliminate mental mistakes and take care of the football. Turnovers are huge when it comes to playoffs. We can’t give up big plays and we have to continue to be physical.”

Oliver said playing at home in the semifinal round is a positive for his team.

“There is nothing better than playing at The Roy, especially during the playoffs,” Oliver stressed. “It’s an advantage for us because it’s our home and our goal is to always protect the L. Plus, we don’t have the two-hour drive.”

Tell City defeated South Spencer 37-32 in the first round to up its record to 7-3. The other semifinal game features North Posey (9-1) vs. Paoli (7-3).

North Posey defeated Perry Central 76-0 in the opening round, and Paoli defeated Eastern Greene, 67-33.

Montgomery led the Miners in receiving against the Chargers with 115 yards, and Scharbrough led Linton in rushing with 42 yards.