Chieftains off to a slow start, losing a pair of non-league games

Columbia River Chieftains (0-2)

Week 1: Evergreen 26, Columbia River 13

Week 2: Tumwater 56, Columbia River 6

Next: Columbia River at Washougal, 7 p.m.

Just one of those nights. Not only playing one of the best programs in the state, but also some strange things going against Columbia River.

Pick-Six-Times-Four:

Columbia River coach Christian Swain said he just tossed up his clipboard after one last defensive touchdown for Tumwater. All he could do was smile. He said he has never been part of a game like this one. Tumwater returned four interceptions for touchdowns.

Columbia River will attempt to throw away their 0-2 record and get in the win column this week at Washougal. Photo by Paul Valencia

Defensive highlight:

Logan Wilson got a huge hit for a no-gain on a fourth-down play in the second half. By that time, Tumwater was in control. Still, the Chieftains wanted a big play, and they got one.

Nice punt:

Wasn’t sure of the number on the jersey, but I think the River punter is Tristan Hoyer. Whoever it is did a great job of getting a punt away in the first quarter. A snap bounced to him, he retrieved the ball, looked up, and saw four Tumwater players closing in on him. Yet he still managed to get the punt away, avoiding the hands that were trying to block it.

Coach Speak:

What did Christian Swain learn about his team in Week 2? “We still have a long way to go, but we are talented and when it clicks we will be a tough team.”

Coaching staff’s pick for MVP of offense: Kanen Eaton had nine catches with no drops. He also had the team’s touchdown.

Coaching staff’s pick for MVP of defense: Logan Wilson, a sophomore playing in his first varsity action, was all over the field making tackles on defense and special teams. “He was a bright spot in an otherwise tough game,” Swain said.

Next for River: The Chieftains open Class 2A Greater St. Helens League play with a game at Washougal.