Golden Eagles level Clay County, Honor Legendary Coach

STAFF REPORT

BSN

PAINTSVILLE — Prevailing in its Class 4A, District 8 opener, Johnson Central defeated visiting Clay County 42-6 at Coach Jim Matney Field on Friday, Oct. 1.

Prior to the district game kicking off, Eagle Field was renamed Coach Jim Matney Field in honor of the legendary Johnson Central head coach who died Tuesday, Sept. 28. Matney guided Johnson Central to Class 4A state championships in 2016 and 2019.

Johnson Central improved to 4-2 overall and 1-0 in Class 4A, District 8 after claiming the win over Clay County.

The Golden Eagles scored first and never trailed. Johnson Central led 22-0 at the conclusion of the opening quarter. The Golden Eagles forced a running clock to start via the KHSAA Mercy Rule in the second quarter.

Johnson Central rushed 30 times for five touchdowns in the win.

Zack McCoart led Johnson Central on the ground, rushing four times for 154 yards and seven touchdowns.

Following McCoart, Carter Conley rushed three times for 100 yards and two touchdowns for the Golden Eagles.

Reaching the endzone in Johnson Central's victory. Matt Crum rushed five times for 30 yards and one touchdown.

Jacob Cain led the Golden Eagles' defensive effort, recording eight tackles and one interception, which he returned 21 yards for a touchdown.

Johnson Central is scheduled to visit Perry County Central for another Class 4A, District 8 game on Friday, Oct. 8.