Union runs away with 56-6 win over Heritage

There were smiles all around the Union postgame huddle.

There was plenty of praise to share after a 56-6 win over Heritage on Friday at McKenzie Stadium to open 4A Greater St. Helens League play.

“Every team has a moment when they become a team,” Union coach Rory Rosenbach said. “I think this was the moment for them.”

Jojo Siofele rushed for 215 yards, including touchdown runs of 60, 31 and 4 yards. Elijah Jones added 99 yards and two touchdowns as Union racked up 381 yards on the ground.

“Everything was clicking,” Union tight end Aiden Nellor said. “The running backs get the touchdowns, but the O-Line is where it really comes down to. It feels good.”

Heritage (2-3, 0-1) took a 6-0 lead on the game’s opening drive, capped by Michael Taras’ 1-yard quarterback keeper. But the Timberwolves were held in check from there. Union (4-1, 1-0) outgained Heritage 449-155.

Braedon Ensley scored touchdowns on both sides of the ball. After his 22-yard fumble recovery put the Titans ahead 14-6, he hauled in a 41-yard touchdown pass from Carter Sutton, who shared time under center with Lincoln Victor.

“It’s exhilarating,” Ensley said. “It’s so fun to be a part of it, with all the weapons we have. I love the camaraderie with the brothers.”

UNION 56, HERITAGE 6

Union             14       14       21       7          —         56

Heritage        6          0          0          0          —         6

First quarter

H – Michael Taras 1 run (run failed)

U – Jojo Siofele 4 run (Alex Koga kick)

U – Braedon Ensley 22 fumble recovery (Koga kick)

Second quarter

U – Ensley 41 pass from Carter Sutton (Koga kick)

U – Siofele 31 run (Koga kick)

Third quarter

U – Siofele 60 run (Koga kick)

U – Elijah Jones 4 run (Koga kick)

U – Jones 28 run (Koga kick)

Fourth quarter

U – Joshua Joo 1 run (Koga kick)

INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS

Rushing — Union: Jojo Siofele 12-215, Lincoln Victor 2-20, Elijah Jones 10-99, Breadon Ensley 1-(-1), Dustin Nettles 2-25, Alex Gonzales 1-2, Lamont Lane 2-22, Joshua Joo 1-1. Heritage: Kahai Umiamaka 4-11, Leo Contreras 10-21, Chase Hendy 1-1, Michael Taras 13-46, Anthony Kee 4-2.

Passing — Union: Lincoln Victor 4-11-0-34, Carter Sutton 1-1-0-41. Heritage: Michael Taras 9-24-0-74.

Receiving — Union: Alishwuan Taylor 1-17, Bradon Ensley 3-58. Heritage: Kahai Umiamaka 4-25, Robert Meadors 4-31, Ammon Garrison 1-13, Chase Hendy 1-5.