Not even the brand new Sounders cheer squad could help the football team on Friday (Sept. 28).
Despite a raucous crowd led by the aforementioned cheerleaders, the Sounders suffered their worst loss in years, falling 44-8 to the Frank Hurt Hornets.
The Hornets, led by quarterback Devoun Hallums and wide receiever Jonaus Levac, ripped the Sounders' defence apart with nearly 400 yards of total offence.
"On defence, we couldn't stop their top two players," Sounders coach Jim Errington wrote in an email. "They really took advantage of our inexperience. On the positive side, we learned more from that game than we would from a month of practices."
Errington said he was pleased with his team's compete level in the face of a tough opponent.
"In the past, other teams have commented on how Howe Sound never quit and this year's team is no different," he said. "Down five touchdowns, our guys played as hard in the fourth quarter as they did in the first. We may lack experience, but there's no lack of heart and that is what will make us better every week."
Cam Dare led the way offensively for Howe Sound, picking up 112 yards rushing, while Rolan Mendoza scored the Sounders' lone touchdown. On defence, Howe Sound was led by Josh Watts with nine tackles and one sack.
Frank Hurt and Howe Sound have had a healthy rivalry in recent years, with the Hornets eliminating the Sounders from the playoffs in 2010 and the Sounders returning the favour last year. Hornets coach Duane Linnen said his team has improved from last year, but still needs to work hard.
"We still have some things to work on but they came out and played hard today," he said, noting the team has a stronger offensive line and wide receiver core this year. "I think Howe Sound's defence came out strong in the first quarter but they didn't adjust to us very well. They're a good team, though, and I think we'll see them again."
Hallums praised his offensive line for giving him the time to launch several touchdown passes.
"They really gave me some time today to sit in the pocket and make plays," he said. "And this year we've got some receivers who know how to get open and are fast. Last year, we were missing some of that."
Hallums said he enjoyed the atmosphere of Howe Sound field and enjoys playing in Squamish.
"The fans and the cheerleaders here make for a fun place to play," he said. "They're a good team, but I think we have a chance to take it all this year."
Howe Sound fell to one win and one loss on the season, while the Hornets improved to two wins and zero losses, and are in first place in Tier 2. The Sounders will next hit the road on Saturday (Oct. 6), when they take on Timberline.
