SPRINGFIELD – In a game between the two teams tied for second place in 10-AAA, Rossview scored early and often in disposing of Springfield 44-14.

The Hawks (6-3, 5-1) played physical in taking over sole possession of second place.

“I knew that if we executed and did what we wanted to do in this game, we’d be fine,” Rossview coach Ron Lambert said. “At the end of the day, it’s a good win for us. Springfield is a lot better than last year, obviously, but I felt like we were a better football team. I thought that going into the game and I think that now. We have to keep it moving and try to get ready to make the playoffs.”

Both teams scored on their opening drives, but Rossview missed its first extra point, leaving Springfield with a 7-6 lead with 4:32 left in the first quarter. But after that, it was all Rossview.

The Hawks scored the next 27 points before Springfield (7-2, 4-2) snapped the drought with 8:34 left in the fourth quarter. Springfield has now lost two of its last three games.

The Yellow Jackets were undone, partially, because of flags. Springfield was called for five personal foul penalties, including two back-to-back without a play being run. It was just after a strong kickoff return in the second quarter that got Springfield deep into Rossview territory. But after the two unsportsmanlike flags, Springfield was pushed back to its own 20. It was a 44-yard flip in field position.

“No rhythm and no momentum,” Springfield coach Dustin Wilson said. “When you get flags and can’t contain your emotions it can cost you. We knew it was going to be a very high emotion game, and if you can’t control it you can’t win football games against good teams. Hopefully it’s a lesson learned.”

Rossview chewed up Springfield’s run defense with Isaiah Johnson and Tristan Luke. Johnson had 240 yards on 24 carries, while Luke added 192 yards on 12 carries. Rossview’s offense racked up 548 total yards.