LAKERS GRAB FIFTH CONSECUTIVE NAC CHAMPIONSHIP IN WIN OVER HERALDS

Photo Credit: Joclyn Nicholas Photography

Andover, OH- Trying to finish strong, the Pymatuning Valley Lakers (6-3, 3-0 NAC) asserted their authority over the St. John Heralds (3-6, 1-3 NAC) in a commanding 60-6 victory, securing their fifth consecutive NAC championship. This game was a testament to the Lakers’ unwavering dedication to their powerful rushing attack, led by the dynamic duo of Ty Vickery and Ryan Croston.

The Lakers wasted no time in setting the tone for the game, with Ryan Croston making a statement early in the first quarter. Croston’s 13-yard touchdown run, followed by a successful 2-point conversion, put Pymatuning Valley on the board at 8-0. Moments later, Vin Narducci of St. John felt the heat of the Lakers’ defense, throwing an interception to Jayce Fulkman. Within moments, Croston was back in the end zone with a 5-yard touchdown run, and the Lakers extended their lead to 16-0.

Despite a brief interception from Croston, the Lakers continued their offensive onslaught with Ty Vickery’s 4-yard touchdown run, although the 2-point conversion was unsuccessful, making the score 22-0. Before the end of the first quarter, Croston connected with Matthew Adkins for a 6-yard touchdown pass, and with another 2-point conversion, the Lakers ended the first quarter with a commanding 30-0 lead.

The Lakers continued their relentless charge into the second quarter, as Ty Vickery scored another touchdown with a 5-yard run, and the 2-point conversion was good, extending their lead to 38-0. Vickery struck again with a 7-yard touchdown run, making it 44-0.

In the third quarter, Croston exhibited his explosive speed with a 48-yard touchdown run, and Ben Crouser successfully converted the 2-point attempt. Jayce Fulkman joined the scoring parade with a 28-yard touchdown run, and the Lakers continued to dominate with a 60-0 lead.

In the fourth quarter, the St. John Heralds managed to avoid a shutout when Ryan Williams scored a 1-yard touchdown run with only 29 seconds left on the clock, but time expired before they could attempt the extra point.

With this convincing victory, the Pymatuning Valley Lakers not only secured their NAC championship but also secured their spot in the OHSAA state playoffs. Their playoff journey promises to be exciting, and their fans can look forward to the prospect of a 1st round game against the Labrae Vikings with a loss to Windham, or a week 1 rematch against Mineral Ridge in the first round with a win over Windham. The Lakers’ commitment to their running game, exemplified by Ty Vickery and Ryan Croston, was the driving force behind this triumph. As the Lakers head into Week 10, they continue to be a force to be reckoned with, while the St. John Heralds will regroup for their upcoming matchup against the Lincoln West Wolverines.