The UNA football team overcame rainy weather and early turnovers to win its Halloween-day game against Delta State (5-4, 1-4) 43-17.

The win came after UNA (6-2, 4-1) lost its first GSC game of the year to West Georgia Oct. 24 31-10.

“Our team played well and didn’t let (the rain) phase them,” said head coach Bobby Wallace.

The Lions started slow, giving away two turnovers, a fumble and interception, in the first quarter to go down 10-6.

UNA went on a rampage in the second quarter, scoring 30 unanswered points to take a 36-10 lead into halftime.

“My whole lecture during the pregame meal was to start fast and I guess we started in reverse,” Wallace said.

UNA quarterback Wingo connected with receivers Dre Hall and Jarret Smith on two long touchdown passes early in the second quarter to spark the Lions offense.

“On both the plays to Dre (Hall) and Flash (Jarrett Smith), the safety was kind of being over-aggressive, so we took advantage of it,” Wingo said.

After the two turnovers first quarter, Wingo finished the half with three passing touchdowns and an eight-yard touchdown run. He threw for 315 yards in the half.

Despite weather conditions, Wingo finished with 356 yards and three touchdowns, completing 22 for 35 on the night.

“It was not a fun game to play (in the rain), but I think the game in Oregon helped us,” said quarterback Luke Wingo. “I think we were a little sharper than them. I don’t think they had to play in the rain all year.”

The Lions defense held the Statesmen to 219 yards, one week after DSU compiled 614 yards against West Alabama. Defensive backs Floyd Jones and Darvell Harris each had one interception to lead the UNA defense.

“Defensively, I was very proud of the way we played today,” Wallace said. They did a great job in man coverage and in zone coverage.”

The Lions will travel to play Shorter Nov. 7 before returning to Braly Stadium Nov. 14 for Senior Day against West Alabama to end regular season play.

“This team is one of the best I have played with, and that showed today,” said defensive lineman Freddie Reed. “Our goal is to make it to the playoffs and win a national championship. We’re looking pretty good.”