GLENVILLE, W.Va. - The West Liberty football team coughed up eight turnovers leading to a 35-14 loss at Glenville State yesterday afternoon.
Even with three first half turnovers, the Hilltoppers were able to head to the break all square at 14.
Rudy Garcia got the visiting squad on the scoreboard the near the 10-minute mark in the second quarter with a 3-yard rush capping off a 16-play, 73-yard drive that took just under nine and a half minutes off the clock.
The following defensive outing, Zach Dixon made his first interception of the season to set the offense back up in Pioneer territory. The 'Toppers could not capitalize, fumbling possession away three plays later. Glenville State was able to take advantage of the turnover with a 31-yard touchdown pass on the second play after jumping on the WLU fumble.
West Liberty bounced back to tie things with just under three minutes left in the opening half on a 10-play touchdown drive that was finished off by a Garcia to T.J. Griffin connection through the air for the third time in two games.
Five of the Hilltoppers eight drives in the second half were ended by a Glenville State interception. The Pioneers converted two third quarter scores including a pick-six, along with a fourth quarter touchdown to secure the win.
28 of the 35 Glenville State points were scored on the backend of a Hilltopper turnover.
Quincy Wimbish Jr. went over 100 yards rushing midway through the third quarter and finished with 124 yards on 23 carries. Garcia also netted a season-high 66 yards on the ground.
Rashawn Harvey was the main target, hauling in a game-high 8 catches for 83 yards.
Shyoun Petteway led the defense for the second straight game in tackles with eight, one of which went for a loss.
The Black and Gold will be back home next week for a matchup against Concord on Saturday. Kickoff is scheduled for 12 noon from West Family Stadium.