The venue changed but the outcome was the same as it has been for the past two weeks as the Emery Spartans moved to 3-1 in 2A North play with a 48-0 victory over the American Leadership Academy Eagles Friday night in Spanish Fork.

Friday’s win marks the third consecutive for the Spartans, who have now outscored their opponents 145-14 during that span. The 35-point mercy rule was also put into play in each of those three tilts in the third quarter.

Senior Jace Curtis continued to dazzle as he reached the end zone four times, running his season total to six touchdowns in just two games. All four scores came in the first half as he crossed the goal line from 2, 21, 14 and 4 yards out.

The Emery defense was once again responsible for forcing a first quarter turnover that almost immediately turned into points. Holding a 7-0 lead Colton Jeffs grabbed a tipped pass from teammate Creek Sharp on the ALA 40 yard line. Less than 60 seconds later Curtis reached the end zone again.

Senior Jace Mangum also reached the end zone for the first time this season as he caught an over the shoulder touchdown from quarterback Ryker Jensen in the third quarter to make it 35-0. Koalton Curtis and Dane Sitterud both scored on touchdown runs of 12 yards late to solidify the win.

Now 5-4 overall, the Emery defense has shut opponents out in 11 of the past 16 quarters in the last four games. Two of those contests have come on the road, while each was a league contest.

Friday’s win sets the stage for a highly anticipated regular season finale Friday night at home against Summit Academy. Both teams will enter with 3-1 league records, with both falling to South Summit.

While the UHSAA has pulled the RPI rankings heading into the regular season finale, it is perceived that a first round bye in the 3A State Championship Tournament will be on the line when the two teams meet Friday night.

Live coverage of the contest will air live on KOAL 107.3 FM and 750 AM. Pre-game coverage will begin at 6:30, followed by kick off at 7:00.