Western Illinois Leathernecks roll in opener

MACOMB, Ill. -- Quarterback Steve LaFalce threw for one touchdown and ran for another to lead Western Illinois to a 31-6 win Thursday night over Morehead State in both teams' season opener.
LaFalce connected with Marco Thomas on a 9-yard TD pass in the first quarter as the Leathernecks (1-0) jumped out to an early 7-0 lead. He capped the game's scoring with a 28-yard run in the fourth quarter.
Western Illinois pulled ahead 14-0 with just seconds to go in the first quarter when Fred Amiker finished a 12-play, 73-yard drive with a 9-yard run into the end zone.
The Leathernecks' Herb Donaldson helped make it 21-0 with a 2-yard run in the second quarter.
Morehead State's only score came in the third quarter on a 6-yard toss from Brian Yost to halfback Eric Fitzpatrick. Eagles kicker Max Hammond missed the extra-point.
Western Illinois' Taylor Rowan hit all four of his point-after attempts and added a 37-yard field goal in the third quarter.
Other games
In two other games involving Gateway Conference teams, Southern Illinois rolled up 500 total yards in a 49-0 victory over Lock Haven, while Northern Iowa rolled past Drake 48-7.
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