By Anvil Welch

awelch@joplinglobe.com

CARTHAGE, Mo. — Jon Guidie, head football coach at Carthage High School, had the problem all coaches would love Friday night.

Like, which part of the Tigers’ game pleased Guidie the most?

The Tigers opened a 21-0 halftime lead in cruising past Nixa 34-14 in a nonconference game matching future Central Ozark Conference opponents at Baker Stadium.

Junior Trey Derryberry passed for 250 yards and three touchdowns and rushed for 69 to direct the Tigers.

Stephen Poston and Clay Kinman combined for seven receptions for 189 yard and two touchdowns. Freshman Brian Poston carried 15 times for 79 yards.

And the Carthage offensive line may have pleased Guidie most of all.

“We were worried about this game,” Guidie said. “But we came out focused.

“The offensive line really stepped up,” Guidie said with a grin. “They (the linemen) probably got tired hearing about our concern.”

“I just went out there and did my best,” Brian Poston said. “Trey (Derryberry) did very well. The line did its part. It all opened up the running game.

“I had butterflies. But I felt good after the first carry,” the 175-pound Poston said. “Coach said I’d probably carry the ball 15 times (hitting that total on the head naturally surprised Guidie).”

Senior Beau Tommey played both wide receiver and cornerback for the Tigers.

“We played really well. We came out with a lot of enthusiasm. We bounced back from penalties several times. Our defense really was focused in the beginning.

“Brian (Poston) may have surprised all of us,” Tommy said. “He should be very proud of himself.”