The Monticello Sages used methodical offensive play and stingy defensive stands to hold off the IVC Grey Ghosts 29-6 in Illini Prairie Conference high school football action Friday night at Monticello’s home opener.

The Sages score 11-minutes and 46 seconds into the first quarter when Joey Sprinkle hit Drew Shephard on a crossing route. 

The Sages struck again late in the second quarter when Sprinkle connect with Tristan Foran for a 13-yard touchdown pass to lead 14-0 at the half.

On the second play from scrimmage in the third quarter, Sprinkle aired out a pass to Peyton Scott who had it tipped in the air, split two IVC defenders, corralled the pass and raced for a 68-yard touchdown.

The Grey Ghosts only touchdown came on the ensuing possession when quarterback Nolin Hulett ran a quarterback keeper to his left, fumbled the ball reaching out for the goal line and the Grey Ghosts recovered in the end zone.

After Hulett was sacked in the end zone for a safety to make it 22-6, the Sages scored again when Sprinkle connected with Foran again for an 11-yard score.

Sprinkle, who was the Piatt/DeWitt County ServPro player of the game, finished 14-for-20 for 266 yards and four touchdowns. He also ran 13 times for 73 yards. 

Foran finished with eight catches for 130 yards and two touchdowns.

The Sages improve to 2-0 overall while IVC drops to 0-2. Monticello visits Olympia next week. Hear all the action on 95.9 FM WEZC and online at dewittdailynews.com.