The Oxford Middle School seventh-grade football team played its first game away from Bobby Holcomb Field on Tuesday, notching a 20-0 win at Clarksdale.

“A little strange to be playing our first away game so deep into the season, and our routine was different pregame for sure,” OMS coach Mike Hardwick said. “It was evident during our shaky play in the first half.”

Oxford’s defense scored more than the offense, using an interception returned for a touchdown by Omar Howell to get on the board in the first quarter and another one from Marc Holmes in the fourth quarter to put the game away.

Howell added a 5-yard touchdown run in the second quarter.

“We are still looking for better offensive execution,” Hardwick said.

Oxford held Clarksdale to two first downs with one of those coming by way of a penalty. The Chargers forced three turnovers in all.

“Defense played really well,” Hardwick said. “We subbed a little more defensively, and I think it helped. Also we have been preaching turnovers, and (Tuesday) we got several.”
Oxford will return to action Tuesday with a crosstown trip to take on Lafayette at 5:30 p.m. at William L. Buford Stadium.