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Hat Trick! Drake Scores Thrice In Season Opener

Photo by JOE DiCRISTOFALO

Nature Coast's Tevin Drake looks for a touchdown signal as he falls into the end zone Friday night during the first half of the Sharks’ home game against Dunnellon.

By CHRIS BERNHARDT JR.

Hernando Today

Published: September 5, 2008

If Nature Coast Technical scheduled Dunnellon High hoping for a test, the Sharks can consider this one passed with flying colors.
All-State running back Tevin Drake found the end zone five times– three touchdowns and a pair of two-point conversion – leading Nature Coast to a dominating 59-7 victory in Friday night's season opener at Shark Tank Stadium.
"I'm very excited about where we're at right now," Nature Coast Head Coach Jamie Joyner said
"…(Drake) came out, along with the offense line and they established themselves early. (Quarterback) C.J. Baker did a great job operating the veer, making good decisions running and throwing."
After Howie Williams caught a 50-yard touchdown pass from Baker to open the scoring for the host Sharks, Drake ran for two scores and capped both with two-point conversion runs to open a 22-7 halftime lead.
In the third quarter, Drake added a run of 70 yards, setting up a short scamper for his third score. Antwan Story added two rushing touchdowns in the second half.
Rockkhem Greene scored on a fumble return, and Isaac Bailey and Colin Mackiewicz each ran in a touchdown to complete the scoring for the Sharks.
The only downside, Nature Coast must continue to search for answers in its kicking game after making only one point-after attempt.
Nature Coast hosts Springstead this week in a battle of the two favorites for the county championship.
"It's good to start like this," Joyner said. "Like everyone we've been working hard since January. The kids have been busting their butts in the weight room and out on the field. It's very satisfying to start with this.
"…We want to play the full 48 minutes and I think the guys did that tonight."