The Gillespie High School football team opened their 2016 schedule by being the guests in Vandalia. The Miners set the tone early scoring twice before Vandalia and led 12-0, but Vandalia mounted a comeback outscoring Gillespie 15-0 in the second half gaining their first lead of the game midway through the fourth quarter, 12-15.
The Miners got within a single point late in the fourth quarter by tackling Vandalia in their own endzone for a safety, 14-15, but couldn’t find their footing on the offensive side of the field as they were forced to turnover in their final possession of the game.

Tate Wargo fends off a defender as he runs the ball for Gillespie in the first quarter.

The Gillespie defense celebrates after tackling Vandalia in their own endzone for a safety.

Nick Wyatt lays a shoulder into Vandalia’s ball carrier.

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The GHS cheerleaders keep the Gillespie side of the field on their feet during the game.

Anthony Kravanya breaks a tackle and looks upfield for more yardage.

Ethan Blevins as full back runs the ball for Gillespie.

Jordan Redmon (#33) and Nick Wyatt attempt to bring the ball carrier for Vandalia.

Daniel Dobrino as quarterback tosses a strike to his receiver on the left side of the field.

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The “coal mine crazies” group draws attention with their own playbook of chants and cheers.

Jordan Redmon stiff-arms his opponent to gain more yards on the ground.