Melba overcomes rain and lightning to dominate Ririe in season opener

RIRIE, Idaho (KIFI) – The Melba Mustangs defeated the Ririe Bulldogs 26-0 during a weather-disrupted season opener at Ririe. After weather halted play in the second quarter, the game resumed at 9:15 p.m. with Melba taking control of the contest.

Lightning loomed during the pregame coin toss and heavy rain began pouring by the end of the first quarter. The storm forced officials to put the game into a delay during the second quarter while Melba held a 7-0 lead.

The first quarter saw a frantic defensive sequence featuring three turnovers over the course of eight plays. On Melba's opening drive, Ririe defender Razden Harris made a tackle to force a fumble, which teammate Kyler Lewis recovered.

Ririe's ensuing possession was brief. On the third play of the drive, Bryce Barber lost the ball after a small gain and Melba defender Cory Neff recovered the fumble.

Melba took over on offense, but quarterback Noah Wiersma threw off his back foot and was intercepted by Harris. The play marked the second turnover produced by Harris in the opening quarter.

Melba eventually broke through later in the first. Melba's Wiersma dropped back and launched a deep pass to Elias Shoemaker, who hauled in the reception over a Ririe defender.

Moments later, Rhett Franklin powered into the end zone for a touchdown to give Melba a 7-0 lead. The Mustangs extended its advantage following the weather delay, winning 26-0. Melba will take on Marsh Valley next week, and Ririe will travel to Soda Springs.