Liberty Christian Falls to Bethel Christian

Liberty Christian found itself overmatched Saturday during its first appearance in a Southern Section football playoff game since 1990.

Lancaster Bethel Christian pounded the visiting Minutemen, 68-18, in a first-round Large School Division eight-man game.

The mercy rule was called in the third quarter after a 40-yard interception return for a touchdown by Bethel Christian’s Jamar Culver.

Trailing, 35-0, in the second quarter, Liberty Christian (6-4) scored on a 15-yard run by quarterback C.J. Leeman, who completed 14 of 32 passes for 195 yards. The Minutemen made it 35-12 on a 30-yard touchdown pass from Leeman to Aaron Mendoza.

Mike Spagnola led Liberty Christian with 66 yards rushing in 15 carries.

Brandon Eggerth rushed for 181 yards in seven carries for Bethel Christian (6-3).