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CARDINALS SHOW OFF THEIR SKILL

MCDONALD OH- Canfield displayed a strong performance on the road, sweeping McDonald in three sets with scores of 25-18, 25-16, and 25-21. The Canfield team showed excellent teamwork and skill throughout the match.

Ashtyn Hanousek and Lauren Miasek both contributed with 5 kills each, while Meredith Ross and Lily Weaver added 6 kills each. Jenna Triveri also pitched in with 4 kills. Carly Fleming orchestrated the offense effectively with 15 assists, ensuring precise plays. Defensively, Alexis Lefoer and Katelyn Bacha stood out with 12 digs each, demonstrating their prowess in the backcourt. Carly Fleming and Isabella Bucciarelli both delivered powerful serves, each contributing 2 aces to the team’s success.

On the McDonald side, Gianna Constantino led the way with 6 kills and an impressive 19 digs, showcasing her all-around skills. Megan Klockner provided 16 assists and 3 digs to support the team’s offense. Grace Bundy contributed with 4 kills and 1 block, while Miley Titus displayed strong defensive play with 16 digs.

With this convincing victory, Canfield is set to open AAC play on Tuesday with a matchup at Warren Harding. Meanwhile, McDonald will continue to defend their home turf as they host Sebring on Tuesday. This game demonstrated Canfield’s prowess and teamwork, securing a well-deserved win on the road.

THE KNIGHTS CONTINUE THEIR REIGN

AKRON OH- Hoban continued their impressive streak of blowout victories in Week 3, securing a commanding 34-6 win over Trinity and moving to a flawless 3-0 record for the season. The first quarter saw a 50-yard field goal attempt from Ryan Burns that narrowly missed the mark, but Caleb Jones managed to find the end zone with a 5-yard rushing touchdown, followed by a successful PAT from Burns, putting Hoban ahead 7-0.

In the second quarter, Burns redeemed himself with a 34-yard field goal, extending Hoban’s lead to 10-0. However, his 38-yard field goal attempt just before halftime fell short, and Hoban held a 13-0 lead at the break.

The third quarter saw Jones continue his dominance with a 3-yard rushing touchdown, with Burns adding the PAT to make it 20-0. The fourth quarter featured a game-changing pick-six by Elbert Hill IV, and Burns’ PAT extended the lead to 27-0. Jones added to his impressive performance with a 32-yard rushing touchdown, and Jeremy Hammel’s successful PAT made it 34-0. Trinity managed to break the shutout with an 11th-hour touchdown pass from Taegan Logan to Brennan Ridley, although the PAT was blocked, resulting in a final score of 34-6 in favor of Hoban.

With this convincing win, Hoban looks ahead to their Week 4 matchup, where they’ll host Akron East. This game showcased Hoban’s dominance on both sides of the ball as they secured their third consecutive blowout victory of the season.

HERALDS BRING NEWS OF VICTORY

Geneva, OH- In a thrilling football game with both teams providing highlight reel plays the St. John Heralds defeated the Beachwood Bisons with a final score of 38-24. While the game would be full of action both teams need a quarter to figure out their plan of attack. The first quarter ended with both teams unable to score as the defenses held strong, causing multiple 4-and-outs.

The second quarter kicked off scoring with 8 minutes and 17 seconds left on the clock when a high snap resulted in St. John taking a safety, putting Beachwood on the board with 2 points. The momentum continued to swing Beachwood’s way as Mar’Tez Pinkney returned a punt for a spectacular 65-yard touchdown. However, the 2-point conversion attempt was unsuccessful, leaving the score at St. John 0 – Beachwood 9.

St. John fought back with a 1-yard touchdown run by Vin Narducci, but once again, they couldn’t convert the 2-point attempt. The score now stood at St. John 6 – Beachwood 9.

Just before halftime, St. John’s defense made a crucial play with Ryan Williams intercepting Larry Clark’s pass. St. John’s offense seized the opportunity, executing a trick play with a double pass. Will Anderson connected with Anthony Severino for a 45-yard touchdown, making the score St. John 12 – Beachwood 9. St. John then successfully recovered an onside kick with only 1 minute and 32 seconds left in the second quarter.

In the dying moments of the second quarter, Vin Narducci found Will Anderson again, this time for a 21-yard touchdown pass. The successful 2-point conversion extended St. John’s lead to 20 – 9 as they headed into halftime.

The third quarter saw St. John continuing their offensive prowess, with Vin Narducci tossing a 42-yard touchdown pass to Will Anderson. However, their 2-point conversion attempt failed, leaving the score at St. John 26 – Beachwood 9. But Beachwood’s Aaden Condor came up with a crucial interception to halt St. John’s momentum.

As the fourth quarter began, Beachwood’s Jacob Thomas made an impact with a 35-yard touchdown pass to Eriq Walker, followed by a successful extra point. The score tightened to St. John 26 – Beachwood 16. But St. John responded swiftly, with Vin Narducci connecting with Will Anderson again, this time for a 69-yard touchdown pass. Their 2-point conversion attempt was unsuccessful, making the score St. John 32 – Beachwood 16.

Beachwood refused to back down, as Jacob Thomas orchestrated a 1-yard touchdown run and a successful 2-point conversion, closing the gap to St. John 32 – Beachwood 24. Beachwood then recovered an onside kick with just under 8 minutes left on the clock.

However, their momentum was short-lived, as Jacob Thomas threw an interception to St. John’s Donald Crawford. St. John capitalized on the turnover, with Ryan Williams scoring a 14-yard touchdown run. The 2-point conversion was once again unsuccessful, making the score St. John 38 – Beachwood 24.

With just 3 minutes and 34 seconds remaining in the game, St. John recovered another onside kick, sealing their victory.

The final score stood at St. John Heralds 38 – Beachwood Bisons 24. The St. John Heralds improved to a 1-2 record and looked forward to facing the Steubenville Catholic Central Crusaders in week 3, while the Beachwood Bisons, now 0-3, prepared to play against the Grand Valley Mustangs in their next matchup.

WARRIORS STAY ON THE WARPATH

Painesville, OH- In an action-packed game, the Edgewood Warriors faced off against the Harvey Red Raiders. The game began with a flurry of touchdowns in the first quarter. Harvey’s Shaun Alston opened the scoring with a 2-yard touchdown run, but their two-point conversion attempt failed, leaving the score at Harvey 6 – Edgewood 0. Edgewood quickly responded as Tony Hall threw a 2-yard touchdown pass to Jacob Ernst, also missing the two-point conversion, tying the game at 6-6. Harvey’s Alston struck again with a 31-yard touchdown run, putting Harvey up 12-6, but they once again failed to convert the two-point attempt. Edgewood then capitalized on an interception by Hunter Braat, with Tony Hall connecting on a 33-yard touchdown pass to Zach Carlton-Hull, making it Edgewood 12 – Harvey 12 at the end of the first quarter.

In the second quarter, Edgewood continued to find success through Tony Hall’s arm, with a 5-yard touchdown pass to Anthony Hunt, but the two-point conversion failed, making it Edgewood 18 – Harvey 12.

The third quarter saw Edgewood extend their lead with a forced fumble by Anthony Hunt, which was recovered by Jacob Ernst and returned for a 40-yard touchdown. Despite missing the two-point conversion, Edgewood was ahead 24-12. Tony Hall continued to impress with a 39-yard touchdown pass to Jacob Ernst, extending Edgewood’s lead to 30-12. Edgewood’s defense remained relentless, causing another turnover by Harvey. Tony Hall added to his impressive performance with a 1-yard touchdown run, although the two-point conversion failed once again, making the score Edgewood 36 – Harvey 12.

In the fourth quarter, Tony Hall found Ben Schwartzfigure with an 8-yard touchdown pass, but the two-point conversion was no good, giving Edgewood a 42-12 lead. Harvey’s Shaun Alston managed to break free for a 74-yard touchdown run, but the two-point conversion attempt failed, making it Edgewood 42 – Harvey 18. Edgewood sealed the victory with a 29-yard pass from Tony Hall to Zach Carlton-Hull, securing a 48-18 win.

The final score was Edgewood Warriors 48 – Harvey Red Raiders 18. Edgewood would go on to face the Hawken Hawks in week 3, with a record of 2-1, while the Harvey Red Raiders, at 0-3, would take on the Brooklyn Hurricanes, who had a record of 1-2.

POLAND DEFENDS THE DOG HOUSE; REMAIN PERFECT

POLAND, OH- In a non-conference high school football matchup, the Poland Bulldogs faced off against the Firelands at Poland Seminary. The game ended with a resounding victory for Poland, with a final score of 49-14.

**First Quarter:**
The game kicked off with Poland Seminary (PSHS) taking an early lead, scoring a touchdown on a 34-yard pass, followed by a successful extra point kick. Firelands (FHS) responded with a touchdown of their own, as Collin Scott ran in a 1-yard score, with Matthew Bednar adding the extra point. The quarter ended with Poland Seminary leading 7-7.

**Second Quarter:**
Poland Seminary dominated the second quarter, scoring three touchdowns. They extended their lead with a 15-yard pass, followed by a 35-yard pass, and a 2-yard rushing touchdown, converting all the extra point kicks. The halftime score stood at 28-7 in favor of Poland Seminary.

**Third Quarter:**
The third quarter continued to be in Poland Seminary’s favor, as they added another touchdown with a 16-yard pass and an extra point. The score was now 42-7 in favor of Poland Seminary heading into the final quarter.

**Fourth Quarter:**
In the final quarter, Poland Seminary sealed their victory with a 7-yard rushing touchdown and the extra point. Firelands managed to score one more touchdown with a 1-yard run by Christian Buchs, and the extra point was successful. However, it was too little, too late for Firelands as the game ended with a score of 49-14 in favor of Poland Seminary.

**Team Totals:**
– Poland Seminary had 399 total yards compared to Firelands’ 194.
– The passing yards were 161 for Poland Seminary and 89 for Firelands.
– Rushing yards favored Poland Seminary with 238 yards to Firelands’ 105.
– Poland Seminary had 17 first downs compared to Firelands’ 11.
– Turnovers were a significant factor, with Firelands committing 5 compared to Poland Seminary’s 2.

Poland’s Dominic Pagano had a standout performance, contributing to his team’s victory with a total of five touchdowns. He completed 9 of 13 passes for 155 yards and threw 4 touchdown passes, including 2 to RB Cole Fulton. Additionally, Pagano rushed for 23 yards and scored a rushing touchdown.

Poland’s RB Danny Nittoli had an impressive game, amassing 106 yards on 8 carries, including a 72-yard touchdown run.

On the defensive side, Poland’s DB Paul Greco stood out with two interceptions during the game.

Poland Seminary emerged victorious with a convincing win, maintaining their undefeated record at 3-0, while Firelands dropped to 2-2 on the season.

WEST BRANCH PUTS ON A SHOW IN FRONT OF HOME FANS

BELOIT OH- In a high-scoring and thrilling showdown, West Branch emerged victorious, handing Girard their first loss of the year in a 52-43 shootout. West Branch’s Joey Jackson showcased an incredible performance, scoring five touchdowns on the night, including an impressive defensive score. Jackson also etched his name in the school’s record books with 15 catches for 208 yards, tying the school record with four receiving touchdowns.

On the opposing side, Girard’s Stephen Sims had an outstanding night with 8 catches, 3 touchdowns, and 144 receiving yards. The quarterbacks were also in top form, with West Branch’s Beau Alazaus completing 32 of 50 passes for 370 yards and 6 touchdowns. He found Anthony Perry 12 times for 97 yards, and Boston Mulinix contributed with 20 carries for 79 yards. Girard’s Tuff McConahy delivered a strong performance as well, going 29-51 for 416 yards and 6 touchdowns.

What set West Branch apart were the game-changing turnovers they forced, a total of five, which ultimately proved to be the difference-maker in this high-scoring affair.

Looking ahead, West Branch will hit the road in Week 4, taking on Ridgewood, while Girard aims to bounce back as they open league play by hosting Niles. This game was a showcase of offensive firepower and defensive turnovers, with West Branch securing a memorable victory in this shootout.

SLOW START NO PROBLEM FOR UNITED

HANOVERTON OH- United orchestrated a remarkable comeback in Week 3, rallying from a 14-0 deficit to secure a resounding 35-14 victory over Crestview. The game began with Crestview taking the lead as Max Hawkins powered in for an 11-yard rushing touchdown, and the ensuing PAT was successful, putting them ahead 7-0 in the first quarter. This lead held until the end of the first quarter.

In the second quarter, Crestview extended their lead with another Hawkins touchdown, this time from 19 yards out, and the PAT was good, making it 14-0. However, United responded before halftime with Luke Courtney scoring on a 2-yard rushing touchdown, narrowing the gap to 14-7.

The third quarter saw United continue their comeback, with Courtney connecting with Louden Stryffeler for a 43-yard passing touchdown, leveling the score at 14-14. Later in the quarter, Andrew Ogilvie added to the comeback with a 1-yard rushing touchdown, giving United their first lead at 21-14 by the end of the third quarter.

United’s dominance continued into the fourth quarter as Courtney found Parker Newburn for a 68-yard passing touchdown, extending their lead to 28-14. Courtney sealed the victory with a 36-yard rushing touchdown, and the PAT was good, resulting in the final score of 35-14 in favor of United.

With this impressive comeback win, United now looks ahead to opening Conference play in Week 4 with a matchup against Columbiana. On the other hand, Crestview will hit the road to face Liberty in their Week 4 contest. This game showcased United’s resilience and determination as they mounted a remarkable comeback to secure the victory in Week 3.

THE BLUE DEVILS BURN BRIGHT

BERLIN CENTER OH- Western Reserve delivered an impressive performance in Week 3, securing a resounding 28-6 victory over Columbiana. The game began with a statement as Western Reserve’s Jack Darney intercepted a pass and sprinted 56 yards for a touchdown, giving his team an early 7-0 lead with Andrij Chuta Suy adding the PAT. The first quarter ended with Western Reserve in control.

In the second quarter, Western Reserve continued to assert their dominance, with Luke Henning connecting with Jack Darney for a 42-yard touchdown pass, extending their lead to 14-0 after Suy’s successful PAT. Columbiana responded with two field goals by Aidan Radcliff, from 24 and 27 yards, closing the gap to 14-6 by halftime.

The third quarter saw Western Reserve further their lead as Luke Henning took matters into his own hands, rushing for a 20-yard touchdown, and Suy’s PAT made it 21-6. The third quarter ended with Western Reserve firmly in control.

In the final quarter, Western Reserve sealed the deal with another Henning-Darney connection, this time for a 40-yard touchdown pass, extending their lead to 28-6 after Suy’s PAT.

The game concluded with Western Reserve emerging victorious with a final score of 28-6. Looking ahead, Western Reserve is set to face McDonald in Week 4, while Columbiana returns home to host United in their upcoming matchup. This game showcased Western Reserve’s prowess on both sides of the ball, as they secured a commanding win in Week 3.

RAMS NEVER SAY STOP

MINERAL RIDGE OH- Mineral Ridge showcased their dominance in Week 3 with a commanding 42-6 victory over St. Thomas Aquinas. The Mineral Ridge offense fired on all cylinders, with Owen Shingledecker efficiently leading the passing game, completing 6 out of 9 attempts for 73 yards and one touchdown. Shingledecker connected with Brady Balestrino for a touchdown, who amassed an impressive 57 receiving yards on 4 receptions. Ian Erb also contributed with 11 receiving yards.

On the ground, Mineral Ridge exhibited a balanced rushing attack, led by Ian Erb with 107 yards and a touchdown on 16 carries. Jacob Russell found the end zone twice, accumulating 60 rushing yards on 6 carries. Bryce Rohrman added 36 rushing yards on 3 carries, while Brady Balestrino and Owen Shingledecker contributed with 34 and 20 rushing yards, respectively. Shingledecker also recorded a rushing touchdown. Christian Dunlap rounded out the rushing stats with 13 yards on 3 carries.

This comprehensive performance by Mineral Ridge secured a convincing win, and they now look ahead to their next challenge in the season. This game underscored their offensive prowess and effectiveness as they dominated St. Thomas Aquinas in Week 3.

SPARTANS BOUNCE BACK IN WEEK 3

Photo Credit: Noelle Nunes

Independence , OH- Trying to bounce back from a tough week 2 loss, the Conneaut Spartans faced off against the Independence Blue Devils, resulting in a final score of 33-15 in favor of the Spartans. With 4 minutes and 26 seconds left in the first quarter, Conneaut’s Wyatt Payne powered through the Independence defense with a 3-yard touchdown run, putting Conneaut ahead 7-0. The Spartans continued their strong start when Independence’s Xavier Wilson fumbled the ball, which was promptly recovered by Conneaut. Then, with just 29 seconds remaining in the quarter, Wyatt Payne added another touchdown to his name with a 10-yard run. Unfortunately, the extra point attempt was no good, leaving the score at Conneaut 13 – Independence 0 at the end of the first quarter. As the second quarter neared its conclusion, Ty Covill of Conneaut extended the lead with a 2-yard touchdown run. However, the two-point conversion attempt was unsuccessful. The scoreboard read Conneaut 19 – Independence 0 at halftime. Independence came out of halftime determined to make a comeback. Rocco Ressler managed to get Independence on the board with a 5-yard touchdown run, followed by a successful extra point. Nevertheless, Conneaut quickly answered back with Wyatt Payne securing his third touchdown of the game, this time a 4-yard run, with the extra point good. Max Gleason then showcased his skills with a 55-yard touchdown pass to Ethan Osborne, extending Conneaut’s lead. The third quarter ended with the score Conneaut 33 – Independence 7. In the final quarter, Independence’s Rocco Ressler connected with Tyler Miller for a 17-yard touchdown pass, and they successfully converted a two-point play, narrowing the gap. However, Conneaut’s lead was insurmountable, and the game concluded with a final score of Conneaut Spartans 33 – Independence Blue Devils 15.

Wyatt Payne had a standout performance, scoring three touchdowns and increasing his season total to five after just three games. Conneaut improved their record to 2-1, setting up an exciting matchup against Chagrin Falls (2-1) in week 3, while Independence remained winless at 0-3 and looked forward to a clash with Cardinal (1-2).