RALEIGH ó Mars Hill College topped St. Augustineís College 22-9 in the season opener for both football squads last Saturday.

The Lions were led by Chappell Rose, who rushed for 105 yards and two touchdowns.

MHC got on the scoredboard with 5:24 left in the first quarter, when Marzarius Samon sacked Brando Franklin in the Falconsí end zone for a safety. On the next possession, Rose raced for a 17-yard score to give the Lions a 9-0 lead.

Also providing spark to the MCH offense were quarterback Ricky Spradling, who hit 9-of-17 passes for 110 yards, and Demario Zachery, who caught three of Spradlingís passes.

Defensively, the Lions, who held the Falcons to 88 rushing yards, were keyed by Ryan Douglas, who tallied 11 tackles and a pass breakup.

MHC will host Brevard College at 1:30 p.m. Saturday at Meares Stadium.