HERALD DEMOCRAT
WAXAHACHIE -- In a game that featured golden opportunities for both teams, only one cashed in to make the happy ending each desired.
Austin College, despite being held in check most of the game by a stubborn Southwestern Assemblies of God University defense, took advantage of a muffed punt, two turnovers, and several critical penalties to post a 28-6 victory on Saturday night in the season opener for both teams.
The 'Roos, the top rushing team in the Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference each of the last four years, were held to just 40 rushing yards on 33 carries. But quarterback Travis Zambiasi was 9-of-15 for 134 yards and two touchdowns, including a 41-yard strike to Greg Harrell, who caught five aerials for 79 yards.
The 'Roos defense kept SAGU out of the end zone as the Lions' only scoring came on James Gish field goals of 36 and 39 yards.
The 'Roos sealed the win in the fourth quarter by marching 88 yards in 12 plays, led by sophomore quarterback Blake Towery. Running back Brogan Funderburg, breaking two tackles along the way, scampered five yards for his second TD of the game with 3:17 to play.
The Kangaroos were given a pair of gift-wrapped, first quarter possessions in the SAGU red zone, turning them into a quick 14-0 lead. Their lead swelled to three scores in the second quarter.
Austin College drove 34 yards before being forced to punt from its 46-yard line. Instead, a penalty was called against the Lions for having 12 players in the huddle, resulting in a 'Roos first down. Three plays later, Zambiasi connected with a wide-open Harrell.
Southwestern held Austin College to only 201 yards of total offense, just 43 in the second half, and had several chances to get back in the game.