Brian Gaither, Michale Spicer pace Western in spring game

Western Carolina's football team wrapped up its spring practice with the annual Purple-Gold Game Saturday at Whitmire Stadium/Waters Field.

The gold, featuring the game's offensive and defensive most valuable players, Brian Gaither and Michale Spicer, respectively, defeated the purple 27-10.

"These guys have worked really hard this spring," Coach Kent Briggs said. "Sometimes when you split up the team you lose some continuity, but I thought they did a great job today. Gaither played very well, and I was very proud of (purple backup quarterback) Justin (Clark). I thought he played well, and I was impressed with his composure."

A 38-yard field goal by Tim Mayse gave the gold a 3-0 lead. John Bush went over from a yard out making it 10-0. Larry Atkinson intercepted a Josh Lee pass and ran it back for a touchdown putting the gold up 17-0.

Chris Vought's 46-yard field for the purple cut the gap to 17-3 at halftime.

The purple drew within 17-10 when J.C. Brown caught a 5-yard TD pass from Clark.

Gaither and Lamont Seward hooked up on an 81-yard scoring strike, and Mayse added a 29-yard field goal to account for the final.

Gaither completed 14 passes for 183 yards. T. Alford had six receptions for 50 yards.

Spicer had six tackles, including four for losses, with 2.5 sacks. Deonte Cook recovered a fumble and intercepted a pass for the gold.

Bruce Lee paced the purple defense with eight tackles.

Manny DeShauteurs, who played for the purple, was the game's top rusher with 52 yards on 14 carries.

Prior to the game, the coaching staff announced its awards for spring practice. Albert Reid was named the most improved defensive lineman, and Lamar Barnes was selected the most valuable defensive lineman. Bruce Lee was chosen the most improved defensive back, and B.J. Jessup was voted the most valuable defensive back.

On the offensive side, Jarrett Wishon was named the most improved offensive lineman, and Morris Sanders was honored as the most valuable offensive lineman. Nicholas Wishart was chosen the most improved offensive back/receiver, and DeShauteurs was selected the most valuable offensive back/receiver.

Back to Sports: 04/17/03.