PIRATES SAIL PAST GRIFFINS IN 1ST ROUND VICTORY
Photo Credit: Dawn Bubonic Photography
Perry, OH- The Perry Pirates delivered a commanding performance in the first round of the OHSAA playoffs, defeating the Akron Buchtel Griffins 42-6 on their home turf. This victory not only secures the Pirates’ spot in the next round but also highlights their potent offense and disciplined defense.
The scoring onslaught began early in the first quarter when junior running back Carter Hopkins found the end zone with a 5-yard touchdown run at the 8:37 mark. The extra point was successfully converted, putting Perry up 7-0. The Pirates continued their offensive surge just three minutes later, as Chris Bezzeg plunged in from one yard out to extend the lead to 14-0.
With the first quarter winding down, quarterback Walter Moses connected with Luke Sivon on a spectacular 69-yard touchdown pass at 1:39, bringing the score to 21-0 after another successful extra point. Moses was just getting started, demonstrating his playmaking abilities as the game progressed.
In the second quarter, the Pirates maintained their momentum. At 5:52, Moses threw a 5-yard touchdown pass to Bezzeg, further extending the lead to 28-0. Just before halftime, Moses struck again, this time with a 53-yard screen pass to Sivon, who showcased his speed and agility to find the end zone. Perry went into halftime leading 35-0 after another successful extra point.
The second half saw the Pirates continue to dominate. At 1:15 in the third quarter, Bezzeg added to his impressive game with a 2-yard touchdown run, increasing the score to 42-0. The Pirates’ defense remained steadfast, preventing the Griffins from gaining any substantial ground.
In the fourth quarter, Buchtel managed to score a consolation touchdown when Steve Diamond connected with Greg Bodine on a 10-yard pass at 6:50. However, their two-point conversion attempt failed, leaving the score at 42-6.
With this victory, the Perry Pirates improved to an impressive 10-1 on the season, earning them a home game in the second round against the Struthers Wildcats, who defeated the Norton Panthers 49-28 in their playoff opener. The loss marked the end of the season for Akron Buchtel, finishing with a record of 4-7.
As the Pirates gear up for their next matchup, the confidence and momentum they’ve built will undoubtedly serve them well as they continue their playoff journey.
