POTTERS PROVING PROMINANT

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EAST LIVERPOOL, OH- In a deeply rooted football matchup that showcased the East Liverpool Potters against the Indian Creek team, it was the Potters who secured a convincing 27-7 victory.

The first quarter set the tone for the game, as Jaymin Haney of the East Liverpool Potters executed a 1-yard touchdown run, propelling his team to an early 7-0 lead. The Potters wasted no time in making their presence felt on the field.

As the game progressed into the second quarter, the Potters continued to assert their dominance. A 36-yard pass from their quarterback Gavin Wright connected with Burchett, extending their lead to 13-0. The Indian Creek team responded with determination, managing a 9-yard touchdown run by Zach Byard, closing the gap to 13-7.

However, the East Liverpool Potters weren’t done yet. They orchestrated a spectacular 98-yard touchdown pass, with Wright delivering a school record-breaking throw to his teammate Burchett. This play further solidified the Potters’ lead at 20-7, showcasing their prowess in execution thus far in 2023.

The momentum carried into the fourth quarter, where the Potters continued to shine. Gavin Wright, displaying his running talents, achieved a 12-yard touchdown run, further extending the Potters’ advantage to 27-7. This final touchdown sealed the victory for the Potters, capping off a remarkable display of offensive prowess and determination.

East Liverpool moves to 2-0 on the season.

CENTRAL VALLEY SNEAKS PAST FITCH

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AUSTINTOWN, OH- In a thrilling and high-scoring football showdown, the Central Valley Vikings clashed with the Austintown Fitch Falcons, with the Central Valley Vikings emerging as the victors in a nail-biting 36-35 final score. The game was a rollercoaster of emotions, filled with explosive plays and last-minute heroics- which was a perfect setting for the stage it was on.

The first quarter began with a strong statement from the Central Valley Vikings as Steven Rutherford, their quarterback, orchestrated an impressive 15-play, 80-yard drive that culminated in a 5-yard touchdown run by Rutherford himself. With 6 minutes and 20 seconds on the clock, Central Valley took the early lead at 7-0.

However, the Austintown Fitch Falcons quickly answered back with a dynamic play from Davion Pritchard, who returned a kick 86 yards for a touchdown. Despite the missed PAT, Fitch closed the gap to 7-6 with 6 minutes and 8 seconds remaining in the first quarter.

As the game progressed to the second quarter, DJ Williams of the Fitch Falcons showcased his skills with a 4-yard touchdown run at the 8-minute and 35-second mark, propelling Fitch into a 13-7 lead. The Falcons extended their advantage when Deon’Dray Richard executed a 35-yard touchdown run, widening the gap to 20-7 with 4 minutes and 47 seconds left in the quarter.

The third quarter saw a resurgence from the Central Valley Vikings. Jance Henry powered through for a 2-yard touchdown run, bringing Central Valley’s deficit to 20-14 with 7 minutes and 1 second remaining. DJ Williams of the Fitch Falcons continued to be a force to be reckoned with, scoring a 21-yard touchdown run and extending Fitch’s lead to 27-14 with just 1 minute and 40 seconds on the clock. However, Steven Rutherford of Central Valley responded with a 29-yard touchdown run as the quarter ended, narrowing the gap to 27-21.

The final quarter was an absolute thriller. DJ Williams of the Fitch Falcons struck again, this time with a 15-yard touchdown run followed by a successful 2-point pass to Allen Hill Jr. Fitch took a 35-21 lead with 8 minutes and 16 seconds left on the clock. Not to be outdone, Mason Dixon of the Central Valley Vikings sprinted for a 69-yard touchdown run, inching Central Valley closer at 35-28 with 7 minutes and 56 seconds remaining.

With the clock winding down, Steven Rutherford led a remarkable 17-play, 80-yard drive for the Central Valley Vikings. In the final 14 seconds of the game, Rutherford connected with Quinn Connolly for a 14-yard touchdown pass. A 2-point conversion run by Mason Dixon sealed the deal, propelling the Central Valley Vikings to a dramatic 36-35 victory.

Fitch drops to 1-1 and will take on Canton Glenoak next week.

PHOTO CREDIT: GARY LEININGER

VIKINGS SECURE FIRST WIN

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LEETONIA OH- In a resolute performance on the road, Waterloo secured their first victory of the season, triumphing over Leetonia with an emphatic 21-0 scoreline.

The opening quarter set the tone for Waterloo’s dominance, as Landon McClain electrified the field with a spectacular 78-yard TD return off the kickoff. Aaron Hart’s successful PAT extended their lead to 7-0.

Waterloo’s drive, starting from their own 15, was interrupted by a pivotal play when Dylan Johns intercepted the ball at Leetonia’s 6-yard line with 2:50 on the clock. Leetonia’s possession from the 6-yard line, however, faced challenges with consecutive errant snaps, leading them to punt from deep within their territory.

As the second quarter commenced, Waterloo capitalized on a short punt, taking over at Leetonia’s 20-yard line. Following a 5-yard penalty, Jaydin Hakin connected with Bobby Harouff for a 16-yard gain, positioning Waterloo at the 9-yard line. Just two plays later, Hakin himself dashed into the end zone with a 5-yard TD run, propelling Waterloo to a 14-0 lead at 10:13. Aaron Hart’s successful PAT solidified the advantage.

At halftime, Waterloo commanded a comfortable 14-0 lead, showcasing their determination on both ends of the field.

As the third quarter unfolded, Leetonia faced a turnover on downs at their own 15-yard line with 4:00 remaining. Waterloo’s ensuing possession took only three plays, with Jayden Hakin completing a 1-yard TD run at 3:39. A successful PAT widened the gap to a commanding 21-0.

The fourth quarter saw both teams battling fiercely, but neither managed to break through for any additional points, resulting in a scoreless period.

The final whistle confirmed Waterloo’s triumphant display, securing a shutout victory with a final score of 21-0.

Looking ahead, Waterloo (1-1) will return home for Week 3, where they are set to face off against Lisbon. Meanwhile, Leetonia (0-2) is geared up for a Week 3 challenge on the road against Strasburg. The victory marks a pivotal moment for Waterloo, setting the stage for an exciting journey in the coming weeks.

MAHONING VALLEY SPORTS

MCDONALD DIGS DEEP TO CRASH CLIPPERS

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MCDONALD, OH- In a closely contested football matchup between the Columbiana Clippers and the McDonald Blue Devils, it was the McDonald Blue Devils who emerged victorious with a final score of 21-14. The game was filled with exciting plays and competitive action that kept fans on the edge of their seats.

The first quarter kicked off with a bang as the Columbiana Clippers wasted no time making their mark on the scoreboard. Liam Surgenevic of Columbiana broke free for an impressive 67-yard touchdown run, putting his team ahead 7-0. Aidan Radcliff successfully converted the PAT to extend their lead.

The second quarter saw a response from the McDonald Blue Devils. With just 40 seconds left on the clock, Drew Zajack of McDonald powered through for a 3-yard touchdown run, leveling the score at 7-7. James Hipple’s accurate PAT kick ensured that both teams remained even going into halftime.

As the action resumed in the third quarter, Columbiana was determined to regain their lead. With only 57 seconds remaining in the quarter, Parker Bush managed a 2-yard touchdown run, giving his team a 14-7 advantage over the McDonald Blue Devils. Aidan Radcliff once again successfully converted the extra point.

The fourth quarter proved to be the most intense and pivotal phase of the game. The McDonald Blue Devils staged an impressive comeback. With 9 minutes and 8 seconds left on the clock, Drew Zajack connected with Jordan Perry for a remarkable 68-yard touchdown pass, leveling the score once more at 14-14. James Hipple’s PAT was spot on.

With the clock winding down and the game hanging in the balance, McDonald’s Drew Zajack stepped up again, this time with a 1-yard touchdown run. With just 3 minutes and 16 seconds left in the game, McDonald surged ahead to a 21-14 lead after another successful PAT by James Hipple.

Despite the Columbiana Clippers’ efforts to mount a late-game comeback, the McDonald Blue Devils’ defense held firm, securing their 21-14 victory when the final whistle blew.

HOBAN USES BIG SECOND HALF TO SAIL TO VICTORY

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ERIE PA- In a clash that showcased their unbeatable spirit, Hoban maintained their spotless record with a resounding victory in Week 2, triumphing over Erie Cathedral Prep with a commanding score of 44-12.

The first quarter brought early action and drama:
– At 6:29, Erie Cathedral Prep’s Luke Costello bulldozed his way to a 1-yard TD run, though the extra point attempt was thwarted. The scoreboard read 6-0 in favor of ECP.
– Just before the quarter ended, Hoban’s Tysen Campbell electrified the stadium with a stunning 60-yard punt return for a TD. Ryan Burns’ successful extra point kick swiftly shifted the momentum, placing Hoban in the lead at 7-6.

As the game intensified, the second quarter saw more points on the board:
– Erie Cathedral Prep’s Suhtaun Lewis muscled through for a 1-yard TD run at 6:55. Although the 2-point conversion attempt fell short, ECP regained the lead at 12-7.
– Hoban responded with finesse, as Boykin connected with Syncere Hill for a 15-yard passing TD at 3:16. Despite a blocked extra point, Hoban narrowed the gap to 13-12.

The halftime break provided both teams an opportunity to regroup and strategize.

In the third quarter, Hoban’s resurgence continued:
– At 4:09, Boykin’s precision pass found Jalen Hightower for a 2-yard passing TD. Ryan Burns’ successful extra point extended Hoban’s lead to 20-12.
– Hoban’s Caleb Jones powered through for a 15-yard TD run at 3:22, and Burns’ precise extra point widened the gap to 27-12.

The fourth quarter sealed Hoban’s domination:
– At 11:51, Burns nailed a 26-yard field goal, bolstering Hoban’s lead to 30-12.
– Caleb Jones contributed once again with a 1-yard TD run at 9:22, as Burns’ successful extra point kick pushed the score to 37-12.
– The game’s excitement reached its zenith at 6:22, as Brayton Feister sprinted an impressive 52 yards for a TD. Jeremy Hammel’s extra point kick was on target, securing Hoban’s commanding 44-12 victory.

The final score marked Hoban’s triumphant reign: Hoban 44, Erie Cathedral Prep 12.

With their undefeated status intact, Hoban now looks forward to returning home for their next challenge, as they prepare to face Trinity Episcopal on Saturday at 7:00 PM. Their 2-0 record stands as a testament to their unwavering determination and exceptional teamwork.

 

 

PHOTO CREDIT: BEN COLL

GARFIELD MAKES SERIOUS NOISE WITH THUMPING OF JFK

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LIBERTY OH- In a high-octane football clash that left fans on the edge of their seats, Garfield unleashed an awe-inspiring performance, trouncing Warren JFK with a resounding 61-26 statement victory.

**First Quarter:**
– The game kicked off with a burst of energy as Warren JFK’s Noah Elser electrified the crowd with an incredible 85-yard kickoff return for a TD at 11:45, putting the initial spotlight on JFK, leading 7-0.
– Not to be outdone, Garfield’s Deacon Sommer responded swiftly, receiving a 70-yard TD pass from Eric Geddes at 10:51. The score was now leveled at 7-7.
– JFK’s Jaylen Murray exhibited his prowess with a 5-yard run TD at 7:15, giving JFK a 13-7 lead after a missed extra point attempt.
– Garfield’s Leo Grandizio stepped up, receiving a 53-yard TD pass from Geddes at 5:17, bringing the score to 14-13 in favor of Garfield.
– JFK’s Noah Elser snagged a 39-yard TD pass from Fred Bolchalk at 1:15, though the 2-point attempt fell short. The scoreboard now displayed 19-14 in JFK’s favor.

**Second Quarter:**
– The second quarter intensified as Garfield’s Eric Geddes punched in a 1-yard TD run at 4:20. The extra point was unsuccessful, but Garfield took the lead at 20-19.
– Geddes continued to shine, securing a 5-yard TD run at 3:55. The successful extra point extended Garfield’s lead to 27-19.

**Halftime:**
– As the halftime whistle blew, Garfield held a narrow 27-19 advantage, setting the stage for a thrilling second half.

**Third Quarter:**
– Garfield emerged from halftime with unwavering determination. Deacon Sommer bolted through for a 50-yard TD run at 11:50. Although the extra point was missed, Garfield solidified their lead at 33-19.
– Leo Grandizio’s connection with Geddes continued to pay off, as he secured a 35-yard TD pass at 11:12. The successful extra point widened Garfield’s lead to 40-19.
– Grandizio wasn’t done yet, as he hauled in a 24-yard TD pass from Geddes at 6:00. The extra point was unsuccessful, but Garfield’s lead stretched to an impressive 46-19.
– Sommer continued to impress, dashing in for a 23-yard TD run at 1:00. The successful extra point pushed Garfield’s lead even further to 53-19.

**Fourth Quarter:**
– JFK’s Jaylen Murray managed a 7-yard TD run at 8:00, and the successful extra point brought JFK’s total to 26 points.
– Garfield’s Collin McGranahan ensured the final points of the game, with a 37-yard TD run at 4:00. A successful 2-point conversion sealed the deal, concluding the match with a remarkable 61-26 victory for Garfield.

**Final Score: Garfield 61, Warren JFK 26.**

With this convincing win, Garfield rides a wave of momentum into Week 3, where they are set to host Normandy. On the other hand, Warren JFK faces a formidable challenge in a road trip to take on reigning state champions South Range in their Week 3 matchup.

BLUE DEVILS WIN A THRILLER ON THE ROAD

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Conneaut, OH- The game between the Conneaut Spartans and the Western Reserve Blue Devils was a thrilling back-and-forth battle that kept fans on the edge of their seats. The scoreboard reflected the intense competition, with both teams showcasing their offensive prowess and determination to secure victory.

In the second quarter, Conneaut’s Max Gleason kicked off the scoring with a 5-yard running touchdown, followed by a successful extra point, giving Conneaut an early 7-0 lead. However, Western Reserve’s Luke Henning quickly responded with a 6-yard running touchdown, leveling the score at 7-7 after the extra point.

As the clock ticked down in the second quarter, Max Gleason once again seized the spotlight with an impressive 71-yard run for another Conneaut touchdown. The extra point extended their lead to 14-7. Not to be outdone, Western Reserve’s Luke Henning connected with Ethan Cannon for a 23-yard pass, resulting in a touchdown and tying the game at 14-14 just before halftime.

The third quarter saw Max Gleason’s dominance continue, as he powered through for a 3-yard touchdown run, putting Conneaut ahead 21-14 after the successful extra point. However, Western Reserve’s Luke Henning refused to let his team fall behind, orchestrating a 2-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter to even the score at 21-21 following the extra point.

With the game hanging in the balance, Conneaut’s Bryce Spurlin stepped up and nailed a 40-yard field goal, giving Conneaut a narrow 24-21 advantage with 6:33 left in the fourth quarter. The tension remained high as Luke Henning led Western Reserve’s offense down the field, ultimately executing a 1-yard touchdown run with 3:26 left on the clock. The extra point pushed Western Reserve into the lead, 28-24.

Despite a valiant effort from the Conneaut Spartans, time ran out, and the Western Reserve Blue Devils emerged victorious with a final score of 28-24. The Conneaut Spartans, now 1-1, would face the Independance Blue Devils in an away game in week three, while the Western Reserve Blue Devils, also 1-1, would host the Columbiana Clippers. The game showcased the resilience and skill of both teams and left fans eagerly anticipating their upcoming matchups.

MAHONING VALLEY SPORTS

TIGERS POUNCE BACK IN A BIG WAY

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BROOKFIELD OH- In a riveting showdown on the football field, Springfield roared back with an explosive resurgence in Week 2, leaving their opening week loss behind and trouncing Brookfield with an awe-inspiring 42-7 victory.

The first quarter set the tone for Springfield’s commanding performance:
– At 8:40, the crowd erupted as Dante Gentile powered through the defense, sprinting 15 yards to score a magnificent touchdown. The stadium reverberated with cheers as Kaesen Kosek’s accurate PAT sailed through the uprights, propelling Springfield to an early 7-0 lead.
– With less than a minute remaining in the quarter, Kaesen Kosek showcased his prowess with a 2-yard TD run, magnifying Springfield’s lead to 13-0. Kosek’s precise PAT was once again spot on, granting Springfield a formidable 14-0 advantage.

The second quarter witnessed Springfield’s relentless drive:
– The scoreboard lit up at 11:00 as Kolten Ruark unleashed a precision pass, finding Drew Miller in the end zone for a 5-yard TD connection. Springfield’s faithful fans erupted in jubilation as Kaesen Kosek’s PAT effortlessly split the uprights, widening the gap to 21-0.
– The clock dwindled to 0:24, but Springfield’s determination only grew stronger. Dante Gentile pounded through the defensive line for a 4-yard TD run, extending Springfield’s lead to a staggering 27-0. Kosek’s PAT was a surefire success, pushing Springfield to an imposing 28-0 advantage.

Halftime arrived with Springfield firmly in control, holding an imposing 28-0 lead over Brookfield.

As the teams emerged from the locker rooms, Brookfield managed to break Springfield’s shutout:
– Brookfield’s Rico Smith displayed his speed and agility with a 28-yard TD run, earning the team their first points of the game at 28-6. Brian Smith’s successful PAT brought Brookfield’s tally to 28-7.

Yet Springfield’s dominance remained unchallenged:
– Kolten Ruark and Dylan Sheely teamed up for a highlight-reel play, connecting for a stunning 55-yard TD pass at the 10:01 mark. The stadium erupted as Kaesen Kosek’s PAT soared through the air, swelling Springfield’s lead to a commanding 35-7.
– With the clock ticking down to 2:42, Kaesen Kosek once again etched his name into the score sheet, this time with a 2-yard TD run. The crowd’s cheers were deafening as his PAT was right on the money, lifting Springfield to an incredible 42-7 lead.

When the final whistle blew, Springfield celebrated a resounding victory, triumphing over Brookfield with a final score of 42-7.

Looking forward, Springfield’s hunger for victory remains insatiable as they set their sights on Week 3, where they will embark on a journey to Geneva in pursuit of another win. Meanwhile, Brookfield prepares for a road challenge, gearing up to face Valley Christian in what promises to be an electrifying Week 3 matchup.

AVIATORS OUT DUEL DRAGONS

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By Ian O’Brien


ALLIANCE OH- Week two had both teams looking to win their second game of the season. A close matchup in the beginning ended up turning into a one sided affair in the second half.  

 

Alliance started to roll early on as Oklahoma Sooner commit Brendan Zurbrugg found K’Vaughn Davis for a 26-yard touchdown making it 6-0 after the missed extra point. 

 

Niles answered back with a division one prospect in themselves in Antuan Gardner with a two yard touchdown, the PAT was good making it 7-6 Red Dragons.  

 

The Aviators came right back however as sophomore Ravhan Hawkins, taking over running back duties for the now YSU Penguin Kayden Davis scored his first Touchdown.  Later on in the quarter the Aviators got the ball back leading to Zurbrugg finding Hawkins to increase the lead 20-7. 

 

Niles cut the lead again as Anthony Budak took it in himself making it 20-14.  Budak then later on in the third found Antuan Gardner for a 57-yard touchdown cutting the lead to six, 27-21.  

 

However it would not be enough as the Aviators found a weakness in the Niles offense and took advantage of it making it the final of 45-28, as the Aviatirs go back to back against the Red Dragons. 

 

Alliance (2-0) will travel to Streetsboro (2-0).  Niles (1-1) will look to bounce back next Friday as they travel to Leavittsburg Ohio to take on the LaBrae Vikings (0-1).  



MAHONING VALLEY SPORTS

EAGLES OFFENSE BREAKS LOOSE

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By Jamie Thomson 


HUBBARD, Ohio – Coming off a lackluster offensive performance a week ago, the Hubbard Eagles (2-0) came out guns blazing in their week 2 matchup against the Greenville Titans (0-1).

On the opening drive of the game, Hubbard would march 77 yards down the field on 12 plays in 5 minutes and 25 seconds. Alex Hackwelder would cap the drive with a 5-yard keeper to take an early lead.

After forcing Greenville to go three and out on their opening drive of their season, Hubbard would put together another impressive drive. Starting on their own 10, the Eagles would get as far as the Greenville 17 before Alex Hackwelder’sthrow to the endzone was picked off by opposing quarterback Nick Solderich.

Hubbard would need just one play to get the ball back as a last second shovel pass from Solderichwas intercepted. Hubbard would capitalize on the Titan’s mistake just three plays later when Garland Warren would find paydirt from 1 yard out.

The Eagle’s dominance on both sides of the ball would persist throughout the night. Hubbard would score twice more in the opening half, all while the defense wouldn’t allow a single first down. In fact, Hubbard wouldn’t allow the Titans to move the chains until their final drive of the night.

Greenville’s offense would only accrue 65 yards of total offense on the night, while Hubbard would eclipse 200 yards via the air and ground for a total of 443 yards. With over 32 minutes in possession of the ball, Hubbard was able to walk away with an easy 35-7 victory.

BIG PERFORMERS

HUBBARD:

Alex Hackwelder: 20/26 passing, 227 passing yards, 1 INT, 20 carries, 74 rushing yards, 2 rushing TDs

Matthew Chaney: 7 receptions, 127 receiving yards

Garland Warren: 18 carries, 99 rushing yards, 3 rushing TDs

GREENVILLE:

Justin Schell: 3 receptions, 42 receiving yards, 1 receiving TD

UP NEXT

Hubbard: After capturing their first home victory of the season, the undefeated Eagles will play host next week to the winless Howland Tigers (0-2) for a non-conference matchup. Hubbard has won the past three matchups in a row against the Tigers. Howland’s last victory over Hubbard came in 2017.

Greenville: For the second year in a row, Greenville will start with a loss at the hands of the Eagles. It’ll be back to western Pennsylvania for the Titans next week as they’ll play host to the Wilmington Greyhounds (0-1).