LOWELLVILLE PREVAILS IN THRILLING OVERTIME VICTORY OVER CLIPPERS

Columbiana, OH- In a nail-biting showdown that kept fans on the edge of their seats, Lowellville managed to secure an exhilarating victory over Columbiana with a final score of 22-21 in overtime. Both teams showcased incredible determination and skill throughout the game, making it a memorable clash that will be talked about for weeks to come.

The game started with a burst of energy from Columbiana as Kian Hartley bulldozed his way through the opposing defense, clinching a 6-yard touchdown run. Aidan Radcliff followed up with a successful PAT, putting Columbiana in the lead at 7-0 with 1:16 left on the clock in the first quarter. The momentum continued in their favor when Hartley once again found the end zone, this time with a 5-yard TD run, followed by another precise PAT by Radcliff. With 9:03 remaining in the second quarter, Columbiana surged ahead with a 14-0 advantage.

Lowellville, however, refused to be outdone. Michael Ballone, the quarterback for Lowellville, orchestrated an impressive 4-yard touchdown pass to Matthew Lucido, who converted the subsequent PAT, narrowing the gap to 14-7 with just 3:54 left in the second quarter. As the game progressed, Lowellville continued to fight tooth and nail, and their efforts bore fruit when Ballone connected with Lucido once again, this time on a 27-yard TD pass. Lucido’s PAT was on point yet again, leveling the playing field at 14-14 with 4:15 remaining in the third quarter.

As tension continued to build, both teams displayed their determination to clinch the victory. In a series of dramatic events, Columbiana’s Liam Surgenevic powered through the defense with a remarkable 20-yard TD run, giving his team the edge once again with a score of 21-14. The resilient Lowellville squad, however, had no intention of letting their opponents take the win easily. Ballone rose to the occasion, not only orchestrating a remarkable 20-yard TD run but also delivering a flawless pass to Lucido for a 2-point conversion. With these crucial plays, Lowellville managed to sneak into the lead with a score of 22-21.

As the clock wound down, both teams were locked in a deadlock, resulting in the need for overtime to determine the winner. The intensity reached a fever pitch in overtime as each side gave their all to secure the victory. In the end, it was Lowellville who emerged triumphant, edging out Columbiana with a 22-21 victory.

Standout performances shone on both sides, with Lowellville’s Matthew Lucido showcasing his versatility with 2 TD catches, 2 PATs, and a pivotal 2-point conversion in overtime. Quarterback Michael Ballone also displayed his prowess with 2 TD passes and a game-changing 20-yard TD run in overtime. For Columbiana, Kian Hartley’s 2 TD runs and an interception couldn’t be overlooked, while Liam Surgenevic’s impactful 20-yard TD run in overtime, combined with his two interceptions, highlighted his all-around contribution.

In the end, it was a game that exemplified the heart and soul of high school football – determination, skill, and the unrelenting pursuit of victory. Fans left the stadium exhilarated by the rollercoaster of emotions and the exceptional athleticism displayed by both teams, proving once again that football is not just a sport, but an experience that brings communities together.

INDIANS SHARP IN HOME OPENER

Girard, OH – The Girard Indians kicked off their season in impressive fashion, showcasing their strength and determination against the Jefferson Falcons in a high-energy clash that resulted in a final score of 42-21 in favor of the Indians. The game, which took place at the Girard High School stadium, witnessed a series of impactful plays that kept fans on the edge of their seats from start to finish.

The Indians wasted no time asserting their dominance, as Stephen Sims of Girard powered through a 2-yard run with 9:39 remaining in the 1st quarter, putting the Indians ahead 7-0. The momentum continued to favor Girard as Ahmad Curd followed suit with his own 2-yard run just three minutes later, extending the lead to 14-0. Kicker Morris proved his reliability by successfully converting all extra points in this early offensive onslaught.

The 2nd quarter saw Girard’s offense continue to shine. Ahmad Curd displayed his skills once again with an 8-yard run, securing another touchdown with 11:56 on the clock, bringing the score to 21-0. Stephen Sims contributed a 1-yard run shortly thereafter, further solidifying Girard’s lead at 28-0. The passing game came into play as well, with Tuff McConahy connecting with Anthony Bengala for a 14-yard touchdown pass, capping off an impressive 35-0 lead for Girard.

The third quarter saw Jefferson Falcons’ Kaige Boczar breaking through Girard’s defense with a stunning 70-yard run, finally putting the Falcons on the scoreboard at 7 points. However, the Indians swiftly answered back, as Tuff McConahy’s 55-yard touchdown pass to Ahmad Curd kept Girard in control at 42-7.

The fourth quarter witnessed a determined Jefferson Falcons’ offense. Luke Funtash managed a 20-yard touchdown run, narrowing the gap to 42-14 with 5:33 remaining. Kaige Boczar once again showcased his speed and agility with a 36-yard run, bringing the Falcons’ total to 21 points with only 1:57 left on the clock. Kicker Jensen Yarosh’s accurate extra points played a crucial role in Jefferson’s resurgence.

As the final whistle blew, the scoreboard displayed a decisive victory for the Girard Indians, with a final score of 42-21. The Indians’ powerful offensive plays combined with a solid kicking game ensured their triumphant start to the season. Looking ahead, Girard (1-0) is gearing up to face the Liberty Leopards (0-1) in week 2, while the Jefferson Falcons (0-1) are set to host Lakeview (1-0).

The Girard Indians have set the tone for an exciting season, and fans can’t wait to see how they continue to dominate on the field.

DRAGONS SECURE LATE VICTORY OVER RANGERS

Ashtabula, OH- In an electrifying football matchup that had fans on the edge of their seats, the Lakeside Dragons clashed with the Eastlake North squad. The game showcased impressive plays, strategic touchdowns, and heart-stopping moments that kept the crowd roaring from start to finish. When the dust settled, the Lakeside Dragons emerged victorious with a final score of 22-14 against their determined opponents.

The game kicked off with an explosive start as the Lakeside Dragons quickly gained an upper hand. With just 6 minutes and 3 seconds remaining in the 1st quarter, quarterback Alex DiSalvatore made a precise pass to Jimmy Timonere, resulting in a stunning touchdown. The Lakeside team didn’t settle for a single point, as they successfully executed a 2-point conversion, boosting their lead to 8-0.

The excitement continued to build as Lakeside displayed their determination on special teams. They managed to recover an onside kick, maintaining their momentum and keeping the pressure on Eastlake North. However, Eastlake North was not to be outdone. With 7 minutes left in the 2nd quarter, Reon’tae Lowery showcased his speed and agility with a 31-yard run, securing a touchdown for his team. The 2-point conversion was successful, leveling the playing field at 8-8.

As the game progressed into the 3rd quarter, Eastlake North seized control of the match. Reon’tae Lowery once again exhibited his prowess with a 24-yard run for another touchdown. Despite a missed 2-point conversion attempt, Eastlake North managed to pull ahead with a score of 14-8.

Refusing to back down, the Lakeside Dragons answered back. With 5 minutes and 8 seconds left in the 3rd quarter, Devan Miller powered through the defense with a 3-yard run, securing a crucial touchdown. The 2-point conversion narrowly missed its mark, resulting in a tied game at 14-14.

Entering the final quarter, both teams were locked in a fierce battle. The Lakeside Dragons roared to life once more as Bartone showcased his determination with a 5-yard run into the end zone. A successful 2-point conversion extended their lead to 22-14, and despite the best efforts of Eastlake North, that score would prove to be the final tally.

With this victory, the Lakeside Dragons kicked off their season with an impressive 1-0 record. Looking ahead, they are set to face off against Notre Dame Cathedral Latin in week 2, aiming to continue their winning streak. On the other side, Eastlake North will regroup and prepare to take on Norwalk in week 2, seeking to bounce back from their hard-fought defeat.

In a game filled with remarkable plays, unwavering determination, and strategic maneuvers, both teams showcased the true spirit of football. As the season unfolds, fans can expect more thrilling matchups and intense battles on the gridiron.

HERALDS STRUGGLE IN OPENER

Geneva, OH-In a dominating display of skill and teamwork, the Trinity Trojans dominated the field against the St. John Heralds, securing a resounding victory with a final score of 38-6.

The first quarter saw Trinity’s Theo Jackson charging into the end zone with a powerful 3-yard run, securing the first touchdown of the game. Jonathan Rosa’s successful extra point kick extended Trinity’s lead to 21-0.

The second quarter continued the Trojans’ dominance, with Theo Jackson once again making his mark with a 1-yard touchdown run. Jonathon Rosa’s precise extra point kick added to the mounting lead, now at 28-0.

As the clock dwindled in the second quarter, Trinity’s special teams joined the scoring frenzy. Damonte McKenzie returned a punt an impressive 45 yards for yet another touchdown. Jonathan Rosa’s consistent performance earned Trinity another extra point, further widening the gap to 35-0.

The fourth quarter saw no relenting from Trinity’s side. Jonathon Rosa exhibited his kicking prowess, nailing a 26-yard field goal, bringing the score to 38-0.

St. John’s Heralds managed to break through Trinity’s defense later in the fourth quarter, as Vin Narducci connected with Will Anderson for a 40-yard touchdown pass. Unfortunately for St. John, the extra point attempt was unsuccessful, leaving them with 6 points.

As the final whistle blew, the scoreboard read Trinity Trojans 38, St. John Heralds 6. The Heralds, now standing at 0-1, are set to face Wickliffe in week 2, aiming to bounce back from this defeat. Meanwhile, the victorious Trinity Trojans, starting their season strong at 1-0, are geared up to clash with the Hawken Hawks in week 2, promising an exciting continuation to their campaign.

ARCHBISHOP HOBAN KNIGHTS FOOTBALL COACH’S CORNER (EP. 1) WITH TIM TYRRELL

AKRON, OH – Head coach Tim Tyrrell is at the helm of one of the most prestigious high school football programs in the state of Ohio, the Archbishop Hoban Knights. The Knights are coming off a 14-2 record and a state championship runner up last season and only look to get better this season! Coach Tyrrell has had a busy off season this year as he looks to keep that winning tradition and repeat back to the state title game, this time looking for a victory. This season Coach Tyrrell and the Knights will open up in a very special game as they will play Lexington Frederick at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium in Canton, Ohio this Saturday at 4pm!

YSN’s own Steve Leslie was able to sit down with Coach Tim Tyrrell this week via Streamyard to discuss how the Knights progressed this off season, what he is expecting from his team this fall, what his thoughts are on the roster and the current state of his program, what his keys to victory are for week one against a talented Lexington Frederick team, and much more.

This week’s episode of Archbishop Hoban Knights football coach’s corner with head coach Tim Tyrrell is LIVE!

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BIG RED DODGE RAINDROPS; CAN’T HIDE FROM IRISH

YOUNGSTOWN, OH- Ursuline snuck past Steubenville Thursday, 36-28, on a night filled with uncertainty.

 While the Irish boasted a deep skill position group, many questioned how its line would fare after graduating all five starters from the previous season.

Ursuline came out of the gate firing when signal caller Jack Ericson found D.C. Ferrell wide open to move his squad into Big Red territory. The drive was extended with a couple of third down conversions, then capped off by a 14-yard touchdown scamper from All-State halfback Christian Lynch.

Once the Irish got going, they never surrendered the lead. A couple of stops in the second frame and timely touchdown catches from new starters Tairan Davis and Devonte Taylor put Dan Reardon’s squad up convincingly at the break, 29-12. 

As if Ursuline’s home opener wasn’t going well enough, Vinny Fecko was able to force a Steubenville fumble on the first play of the third quarter. Shortly after, Ericson connected with Taylor for the second time on the evening, and the route seemed to be on with the Irish holding a commanding 36-12 lead.

The Big Red would answer back in thanks to its seniors. First on a touchdown run from Savier Faulks, then later a pick-six from Elijah Mullins. Que the storm.

The weather delay for this game lasted well over an hour, but when it resumed, the Irish had fourth and 15 from the Steubenville 45-yard line. Only 5:06 remained in the contest/

Steubenville kept fighting, scoring a late touchdown with a successful two-point conversion.

However, an Ursuline three-and-out couldn’t help the Big Red’s hopes of forcing an extra session. A last-second “Hail Mary” attempt fell about 15 yards shy of the end zone and secured an impressive victory for Ursuline.

Ericson led the way for the Irish, tossing the rock for 235 yards and four touchdowns. Davis was also big in the win, racking up well over 100 receiving yards and a pair of scores.

*Article written by YSN’s Tim Corso


GARDNER GOES OFF; NILES TOASTS TIGERS

NILES, OH- In a riveting matchup between the Howland Tigers and the Niles Red Dragons, football fans were treated to a roller-coaster of action, with both teams leaving it all on the field. The first quarter remained scoreless as the two teams jockeyed for control. However, the second quarter brought a flurry of excitement. Howland’s quarterback, John Perry, showcased his skills with a precision 20-yard touchdown pass to TJ Douglas, putting the Tigers on the board at 6-0 with just 4 minutes and 10 seconds left on the clock. The successful PAT by Jack Litton extended their lead to 7-0.

Not to be outdone, the Niles Red Dragons roared back just before halftime. With a mere 6 seconds left, Antuan Gardner sprinted his way into the end zone with a 9-yard touchdown run, bringing the score to a close 7-6 in favor of Howland as the teams headed into the locker rooms.

As the third quarter unfolded, Niles continued to surge. Gardner once again demonstrated why he’s considered one of the area’s best with a 9-yard touchdown run at the 8:38 mark. Anthony Georgalas’s successful extra point kick boosted Niles’ lead to 14-7. The fourth quarter proved to be a pivotal turning point, with both teams fiercely battling for supremacy. Niles’ Anthony Budak unleashed an electrifying 85-yard touchdown run, extending Niles’ advantage. Howland responded with a stunning 62-yard touchdown pass from Perry to Josh Jarvis, reigniting their hopes and narrowing the gap to a one-score game.

However, Niles’ Gardner refused to be contained. With a relentless drive, he powered his way into the end zone from 4 yards out, expanding Niles’ lead to 28-14. Gardner continued his stellar performance, notching another touchdown with a 15-yard run, securing Niles’ commanding 35-14 lead with just 3 minutes and 47 seconds left on the game clock. Mother Nature had other plans, though, as inclement weather abruptly brought the game to an early close.

When all was said and done, Niles emerged victorious with a well-fought 35-14 lead, starting their season off on a high note with a 1-0 record. On the other side, Howland faced an unfortunate defeat, commencing their season at 0-1.

BLUE JAYS BLANK THE MUSTANGS

NORTH JACKSON, OH-The Mathews Mustangs faced off against the Jackson Milton Blue Jays in an intense game that saw a series of dynamic scoring drives. The first quarter showcased Jackson Milton’s offensive prowess, as Cayden Mitchell connected with Jonah French on a spectacular 37-yard touchdown pass at the 7:34 mark. The Blue Jays took an early lead, setting the tone for the game.

The second quarter continued to highlight Jackson Milton’s dominance. Cayden Mitchell remained in top form, launching a 41-yard touchdown pass to Joey Zayas just 11:48 into the quarter. Not content with just one impressive drive, the Blue Jays’ Jack McDevitt intercepted a pass, providing the perfect opportunity for Cayden Mitchell to strike again. Mitchell capitalized on the turnover, throwing a 22-yard touchdown pass to Jonah French.

The first half ended with a strong defensive play from Cayden Mitchell, who secured an interception just before halftime, adding to his multifaceted contribution to the game. The halftime score stood at 21-0 in favor of the Blue Jays.

Returning to the field in the second half, the Blue Jays continued their offensive onslaught. Aiden Stanke emerged as a force to be reckoned with, breaking through the Mustangs’ defense with a 15-yard touchdown run. The Blue Jays’ momentum only grew stronger, as Aiden Stanke duplicated his success with a 20-yard touchdown run just a few minutes later.

Despite the Mustangs’ efforts, the Blue Jays’ defense remained steadfast, thwarting any attempts at a comeback. The game ended with a decisive victory for Jackson Milton, shutting out Mathews with a final score of 27-0. Unfortunately, the game had to be called off due to inclement weather with only 1:30 left in regulation.

Jackson Milton moves to 1-0, while Mathews falls to 0-1 to start their campaign.

CONNEAUT SPARTANS STORM TO VICTORY IN WEEK 1

East Palestine, OH- In a thrilling display of athleticism and determination, the Conneaut Spartans kicked off their season with an emphatic victory over the Grand Valley Mustangs, clinching a commanding 20-0 win on the grounds of Joslin Field. Despite a brief interruption due to adverse weather conditions, the Spartans showcased their dominance and teamwork, leaving an indelible mark on the early stages of the football season.

The matchup unfolded with palpable excitement as fans gathered to witness the clash of titans in the season opener. Both the Spartans and the Mustangs demonstrated their prowess during a scoreless first quarter, engaging in a tactical battle that kept spectators on the edge of their seats. However, the second quarter saw the Spartans seize control of the game, unleashing an offensive onslaught that paved the way for their triumphant performance.

The opening salvo was fired by the dynamic running back Wyatt Payne, whose explosive 23-yard touchdown run ignited a roaring wave of applause from the crowd. The precision of Bryce Spurlin’s extra point kick extended the Spartans’ lead to 7-0, setting the stage for a series of remarkable plays that would further enhance Conneaut’s grip on the game.

Wyatt Payne once again emerged as a focal point of the Spartans’ offensive strategy, capitalizing on his exceptional speed and agility to break free from the Mustangs’ defense. With a dazzling 45-yard touchdown run, Payne extended his team’s lead to a commanding 14-0 with 5:50 left on the clock in the second quarter. The accuracy of Bryce Spurlin’s extra point kick further solidified the Spartans’ position.

The relentless offensive pressure from the Conneaut Spartans showed no signs of abating, as Max Gleason showcased his own remarkable skills with a well-executed 6-yard touchdown run. Despite a missed extra point kick, Gleason’s contribution pushed the Spartans’ lead to an insurmountable 20-0 with just 4:21 remaining in the second quarter.

The star-studded performance was fueled by standout players Wyatt Payne and Max Gleason, both of whom exhibited their exceptional athleticism and dedication to the game. Wyatt Payne’s outstanding display of skill and determination allowed him to accumulate an impressive 175 yards on a mere 12 carries, resulting in two awe-inspiring touchdowns. Unfortunately, a third touchdown was nullified due to a Spartan penalty, underscoring the team’s commitment to upholding their performance standards.

Max Gleason’s prowess was equally evident as he dashed through the field for a remarkable 102 yards on 13 carries, punctuated by a well-deserved touchdown that significantly contributed to the Spartans’ resounding victory. Their collective efforts, combined with the cohesion of the entire team, showcased the Conneaut Spartans’ commitment to excellence and teamwork.

The game’s conclusion was marked by a short delay caused by lightning, a testament to the unpredictable nature of outdoor sports. After a mutual agreement between the teams, the game was called with 8:26 left on the clock in the fourth quarter due to the continued threat of thunder and lightning. While the victory was undoubtedly within the Spartans’ grasp, the priority remained the safety of all participants and attendees.

With this triumphant victory, the Conneaut Spartans launch their season with an unblemished 1-0 record, setting the stage for what promises to be an exciting campaign ahead. Looking forward, the Spartans are set to host Western Reserve next week, with their sights firmly set on continuing their winning momentum. On the opposing end, the Grand Valley Mustangs, now at 0-1, will take to the road as they face fellow CVC member, the Edgewood Warriors, in what is sure to be another compelling contest.

KENNEDY STORMS PAST FLASHES

LIBERTY, OH- In a thrilling opening match of the season, the Warren John F Kennedy High School football team clashed with the Champion Flashes in a game that showcased remarkable plays and intense competition. The game started with a burst of energy as Champion’s Carter Boggs carved his way through the defense, dashing 57 yards for an impressive touchdown with 7 minutes and 40 seconds left in the first quarter. This put Champion in the lead, 7-0. However, Kennedy quickly responded as Riley Littler displayed his kicking prowess, nailing a 32-yard field goal with 5 minutes and 30 seconds remaining in the quarter, reducing the deficit to 7-3.

Not willing to be outdone, Kennedy’s offense came alive as Freddy Bolchalk and Noah Elser executed a precise 17-yard pass for a touchdown, propelling Kennedy to a 10-7 advantage. The second quarter showcased Kennedy’s dominance as they expanded their lead. Marcus Komora’s explosive 52-yard run found the end zone, extending Kennedy’s lead to 17-7 with 8 minutes and 17 seconds left in the first half. Bolchalk and Noah Elser continued to shine, connecting with a 25-yard pass for another touchdown just over 4 minutes before halftime, giving Kennedy a commanding 24-7 lead as the teams headed to the locker rooms.

Despite both teams’ efforts, the second half remained scoreless, save for a pivotal moment in the final quarter. Kennedy’s defense made a statement early in the fourth quarter, as a high snap on a punt attempt led to a safety, further solidifying their grip on the game. When the final whistle blew, Kennedy emerged triumphant with a final score of 26-7, claiming victory in their season opener. With this win, Kennedy started the season strong at 1-0, while Champion faced an early setback, falling to 0-1. The game showcased Kennedy’s offensive prowess and defensive tenacity, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead.

GAME PHOTOS HERE