WELLS &045; For the second week in a row, the NRHEG Panthers had a huge

homecoming victory.

The latest was even less enjoyable for the opponents.

A week after lambasting Lake Crystal-Wellcome Memorial 61-6 at New Richland,

the Panthers reigned at United South Central’s homecoming 41-1 at Wells Friday night.

The Panthers dominated, totaling 379 yards while holding USC to 109. The Rebels, who fell to 3-3 with their third consecutive loss, played without their starting quarterback. The closest they got to the goal line was in the second quarter, when they reached the NRHEG 20 before fumbling &045; one of four USC turnovers.

First-year NRHEG head coach Dan Stork, whose team improved to 4-2, admitted surprise at the margin of victory.

“I really thought USC would give us fits,” said Stork. “Our guys were on a mission. They played real, real well, and they just keep getting better. It’s fun to coach them.”

Joe Balfe had another fun night, topping 100 yards for the third week in a row with 123 yards rushing on 23 carries. Bjorn Peterson completed six of 14 passes for 113 yards and two touchdowns, a 24-yarder to Matt Wenzel and a 40-yarder to Jake Bushlack. Peterson also scored on runs of 4 and 6 yards &045; all in the first half as NRHEG took a 28-0 halftime lead. Balfe and Chris Somage scored in the fourth quarter.

“Our offensive and defensive line played great, and our special teams were spectacular,” said Stork.

Justin Hove led the Panther defense with eight tackles. Other defensive leaders: Kaleb Jacobson five tackles, Anders Mattson five tackles, Chris Hager five tackles; Brett Wangsness four tackles, fumble recovery; Matt Holland four tackles; Curt Pederson four tackles; Taylor Greenwood two tackles, interception; Bryan Kormann sack; Ben Groth interception; Carl Pederson fumble recovery.

Callan Pitcher was the Rebels’ top rusher with 26 yards on nine carries.

Adam Schrader was 3-for-11 passing for 19 yards andtwo interceptions.

The Panthers host Blooming Prairie this Friday while the Rebels play Saturday at Minnesota Valley Lutheran.