BULLDOGS BOUNCE BACK IN THE DRAGONS DEN
NILES OH- In a hard-fought battle on the gridiron, Poland bounced back from last week’s setback with a gritty 28-14 victory on the road over the Niles Dragons. The game featured a series of compelling moments that kept fans on the edge of their seats.
In the 1st quarter, Niles embarked on a promising drive, starting at their own 4-yard line. Anthony Budak’s precision passing, including a 36-yard completion to Kristopher Hrosar, and powerful carries by Antuan Gardner and Joe Smith, took them to the Poland 6. However, Niles missed a 23-yard field goal attempt. Poland responded with an 80-yard drive, culminating in Dom Pagano’s 2-yard touchdown run, and the PAT was good, putting them ahead 7-0.
The 2nd quarter saw Niles’ defense stepping up, stopping Poland on 4th down at the Poland 47-yard line. Then, Budak found Gardner with a 27-yard touchdown pass, and the successful PAT leveled the score at 7-7. Poland answered back with Cole Fulton’s 6-yard touchdown run, capping a drive that started at their own 31. The PAT was good, and Poland led 14-7.
As the 3rd quarter began, Poland executed a successful onside kick, gaining possession at the Niles 48-yard line. However, the Red Dragons’ defense stood firm, forcing a turnover on downs. Niles responded by punting, and Poland’s Cole Fulton unleashed a 52-yard touchdown run, extending their lead to 21-7. Niles answered with a 71-yard drive, with Anthony Budak rushing for a 2-yard touchdown to narrow the gap to 21-14.
In a pivotal moment, Cole Fulton, on the first play from scrimmage, broke free for a breathtaking 69-yard touchdown run. The successful PAT extended Poland’s lead to 28-14 with 4:32 left in the 3rd quarter.
The 4th quarter saw both teams trading possessions, but neither could find the end zone. Niles made a late-game push, blocking a punt with 2:08 remaining, but ultimately turned the ball over on downs.
In the end, Poland emerged victorious with a final score of 28-14. Poland improved to 6-1 (2-1) and looks forward to their next challenge against Girard, while Niles, now 5-2 (2-1), prepares to host South Range in their upcoming matchup.
