The Emery Spartans encountered early success, but second half woes played a major factor in a 42-7 loss to the Union Cougars Friday night in Castle Dale.

Trailing 14-7 at the end of the first half, the Spartans allowed 21 third-quarter points in Friday’s loss. The setback drops Emery to 1-3 in Region 3A North play, while the Cougars improve to 3-1 entering the final week of the regular season.

Senior quarterback Kyson Stilson completed 11 of 27 passes for 116 yards and a touchdown to lead Emery. The lone score came in the first quarter as Stilson found Jaymes Bowman for an 11-yard score to give Emery a 7-0 lead.

Union tied the contest in the second quarter as quarterback Nate Foote scored on a 13 yard run. Foote later connected with Chase Birchell on a 72-yard touchdown pass to give the Cougars a 14-7 lead going into the break.

Union pulled away for good with a 21-point third quarter, extending the lead to 28. The fourth quarter was a formality as the Cougars registered one last touchdown.

Friday’s loss keeps Emery in a tie with the Carbon Dinos for fourth and fifth place in the division. Judge Memorial remains the only team without a win in sixth place.

The Spartans will wrap up the regular season with a home tilt against the Grantsville Cowboys Friday night. Entering the final game before the postseason, Emery can move up to fourth or potentially drop to sixth.

Live coverage of Friday’s game will air on KOAL 107.3 FM and 750 AM beginning with the Landon’s Diesel Service Pre-Game Show at 6:30 p.m.. Kickoff will follow shortly after at 7:00.