UNION CITY — The Union City Bears ended a 17-game losing streak Friday night, defeating the Cochranton Cardinals, 28-6, on Senior Night at Union City High School.
The victory was Union City’s first of the season, improving the Bears’ record to 1-8. Cochranton fell to 0-9.
The game remained scoreless through most of the first half as both defenses made key stops. Union City turned away several Cochranton drives, including a fourth-down attempt late in the first quarter. The Bears also forced a turnover when Hunter Price recorded a sack and fumble recovery opportunity late in the first half, setting up a chance to score before halftime.
Union City finally broke through with just seconds remaining in the second quarter. Quarterback Jaden Betcher connected with Kane Gregor for a touchdown, giving the Bears a 6-0 lead at halftime. The extra-point attempt was blocked.
The Bears extended their lead early in the third quarter after a strong kickoff return by Hunter Michael gave Union City favorable field position. Betcher then connected with Joe Green for a touchdown, pushing the lead to 12-0. The extra point was unsuccessful.
Cochranton answered late in the third quarter when Noah Carroll connected with JJ Walker for a touchdown. The Cardinals attempted a two-point conversion but were unsuccessful, leaving Union City ahead 12-6 entering the fourth quarter.
Union City took control early in the final period. Danny Smith broke loose for a 46-yard touchdown run, and he added the two-point conversion to put the Bears ahead 20-6.
The Bears added another touchdown later in the quarter when Garrett Miller scored on a one-yard run. Joe Green ran in the two-point conversion, extending the lead to 28-6.
Union City’s defense continued to pressure Carroll and the Cochranton offense throughout the game. The Bears recorded a key interception in the fourth quarter and later stopped the Cardinals on fourth down with a sack by Green.
Individual stats were not provided as of press time.
Union City will close out the season Friday, Oct. 30, on the road against Mercer, with an opportunity to finish the year with consecutive victories.
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