In 2017, Dr. Oliver Lucas led his new look Cardinals to a 5-6 record, the best finish for GRC football in numerous years.

Looking to improve upon last season, the Cardinals took the field Friday night with high hopes. Despite last year’s 27-14 defeat to Anderson County, the GRC faithful expected a close game.

On the first play from scrimmage,

the Bearcat running back exploded for a huge gain, resulting in a touchdown in less than thirty seconds.

From there, the Cards’ struggles continued.

The offense was held scoreless in the game, but not for the lack of effort. GRC managed to drive the ball inside the 20 yard-line multiple times.

The final drive of the first half saw the Anderson County defense force a turnover on downs – inside the 5 yard line.

On the defensive side of the ball, things for the Cardinals weren’t much prettier. The Bearcat running backs had their way throughout the game, carrying the ball for numerous long touchdown runs.

Anderson County led GRC 28-0 at halftime.

The defense came alive at the start of the second half. Allowing only 13 points to a potent offense, the Cardinals showed much potential for the games to come.

GRC was unable to cross the goal-line in the second half as well, however the Cardinals never stopped battling. The final play was a deep pass that was caught, but came up just yards shy of the end zone.

Dr. Oliver Lucas will have to wait to pick up their first win of the season, following the 41-0 loss. Even so, with many signs of improvement in the second half, the Cardinals have plenty more opportunities.

GRC travels to Harrison County for their second game. The Cardinals triumphed in Cynthiana last season, 50-6. However, the Thorobreds won their first game 47-6 and should not be overlooked.

Next week will be a test of how well the 2018 edition of Cardinal football can bounce back.