The South Fork Cubs put a pair of tough losses behind them on Friday night, running out to a 50-26 win over Upper Lake in Miranda.

After losing to both Branson and Stuart Hall the past two weeks, the Cubs returned to league play and took of business once again, improving to 4-2 on the year and 2-0 in the North Central League-III.

The Cubs have now scored 48 or more points in three of their four wins.

Injuries have not helped matters for South Fork this season, with just 12 players suiting up for their eight-man game against an Upper Lake roster that featured 30 players.

Three South Fork players are likely done for the season, limiting the options for head coach Karl Terrell.

On Friday, however, Terrell was more than happy with the way his players responded to that adversity, and relieved they came out of the game healthy.

In particular, seniors C.J. Van Meter and Cody Wyatt continue to lead the way.

Each ran for over 100 yards to lead a Cubs ground attack that racked up 304 yards and five touchdowns.

“We’re running the ball well right now,” Terrell said.

Van Meter carried the ball 11 times for 140 yards and scored three TDs, while Wyatt finished with 115 yards on 13 carries and added a pair of TDs.

Sophomore Alex Harding added 49 yards on 11 carries.

The passing attack continues to be a work in progress, although Van Meter was an effective 10-of-19 for 105 yards and one touchdown, with no interceptions. 

Wyatt was his favorite target, with five catches for 70 yards and another TD.

“We had a great performance from our seniors,” Terrell said. “And our sophomores are coming along.”

Sophomore Graham McConnell had a pair of sacks in the win as well as causing a fumble, while averaging almost 22 yards on three kick returns.

Along the line, tackle Ray Gotcher has emerged as one of the team’s most consistent threats.

“He’s only a sophomore, but he’s learning the game,” Terrell said of Gotcher, who had a team-high 11 tackles in the win.

Senior Dylan Music also had a big night with 10 tackles, while Harding had nine and senior Ayden Gallagher eight.

Friday’s win was the Cubs’ seventh straight in league play.

“We’re getting by,” Terrell said. “I think we’re learning as we go. I feel pretty good about our chances as long as we’re healthy.”