REASON TO CELEBRATE...is what the Miami East Vikings had after defeating Covington for the first time since 1994.

After four weeks two teams share the Cross County Conference lead with 3-0 records in the league and 3-1 records overall as Miami East and Ansonia took care of business in big games.

First, the Vikings emphatically made a statement by defeating Covington 28-7 on the Buccs' home field. To make matters worse for the young Buccs, it was their second straight home loss.

The visiting Vikings took control early as Justin Baker connected with Dalton Saylor for a 48-yard score on the third offensive play of the game.

Sam Smallwood took over from there with two straight touchdown runs before Baker connected with Tyler Dunivan from 29 yards out to give Miami East a 28-0 half time lead.

Covington did respond to score it lone touchdown early in the third quarter and shut down the Viking offense in the second half. But Miami East's defense preserved the victory.

With three straight wins after a season opening loss to Milton Union, Miami East has their sights set on the CCC championship - although there is still a lot of football left to be played.

And the Tigers from Ansonia look to stake their claim as they defeated Arcanum in impressive fashion, 42-27.

After holding a slim 22-21 lead at the half, the Tiger defense took over the game while the offense continued to put points on the board. The defensive effort was proof that Ansonia is well prepared and able to make half time adjustments.

The victory was also Ansonia's third straight after dropping the season opener against Ansonia.

Twin Valley South, Tri-County North and Mississinawa Valley also stayed in the hunt with victories to even their respective records to 2-2.

Twin Valley South defeated Bethel 27-21; North beat Bradford 41-13 and the Blackhawks downed National Trail 24-13.

Bethel, Bradford and National Trail are still looking for their first wins at 0-4.

We're nearly halfway through the season and should Miami East and Ansonia continue to win - a week nine showdown in Tiger land could decide CCC bragging rights in 2008.

But, there's still a lot of football between now and then and the team that continues to take care of business week in and week out will be left standing in the end.