Tag Archive for: High School Football

RED RAIDERS TOO MUCH FOR MUSTANGS

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Painesville, OH- In a challenging matchup against the Harvey Red Raiders, the Grand Valley Mustangs found themselves facing an uphill battle right from the opening kickoff. The first quarter began with Harvey’s Shaun Alston breaking free for an impressive 70-yard rushing touchdown, setting the tone for the game. Adding insult to injury, Harvey successfully executed a 2-point conversion, quickly putting them ahead 8-0.

The Mustangs continued to struggle as Harvey’s special teams took center stage. Davon Bradley’s breathtaking 90-yard punt return for a touchdown, coupled with Tyshawn Vance’s accurate extra point kick, extended Harvey’s lead to 15-0 with 7:11 left in the first quarter. Things took a turn for the worse for Grand Valley as Sammy Goforth’s pass was intercepted by Ish Jackson, who returned it for a touchdown, albeit with a missed extra point attempt. The score now stood at a daunting 21-0 in favor of Harvey with only 49 seconds remaining in the first quarter.

The second quarter brought no respite for the Mustangs, as Harvey’s offense continued to shine. Cavon Wise connected with Tyshawn Vance twice for touchdowns, first for 29 yards and later for 23 yards, both times adding the extra point successfully. As the clock wound down on the second quarter, Harvey held an imposing 35-0 lead.

The fourth quarter saw one more touchdown from Harvey, with Cavon Wise throwing a 33-yard pass to Chase Goins. The extra point was good, bringing the final score to a decisive 42-0 in favor of the Harvey Red Raiders.

The Grand Valley Mustangs (2-5, 0-2 CVC Valley Division) faced a tough loss, but they will have an opportunity to bounce back in week 8 as they play at home against the Cardinal Huskies (4-3, 1-1 CVC Valley Division). Meanwhile, the Harvey Red Raiders (4-3, 2-0 CVC Valley Division) will also play at home in week 8, facing the formidable Kirtland Hornets (6-1, 2-0 CVC Valley Division). The Mustangs will undoubtedly look to regroup and come back stronger in their next matchup.

THE GARFIELD EXPRESS KEEPS ROLLING

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LIBERTY OH- In another dominant performance, the Garfield football team continued their impressive run, triumphing over Liberty with a resounding 42-21 win. Garfield’s offense showcased its explosiveness, while their defense proved to be a formidable force throughout the game.

The 1st quarter kicked off with a bang as Garfield’s Keegan Sell exploded with a 47-yard touchdown run at 8:29. Liberty swiftly responded as Tawann Tutwiler connected with Dawaun Moody for a 36-yard touchdown pass with 3:09 left on the clock. However, Garfield struck again with Sell’s remarkable approximately 80-yard kick return into the end zone, just 12 seconds later. All extra points were successfully converted by Ethan Bittence, giving Garfield the edge.

The 2nd quarter was marked by Garfield’s offensive prowess, beginning with Brandyn Bogucki’s explosive 56-yard rushing touchdown at 7:58. Keegan Sell wasn’t to be outdone, as he added another impressive 49-yard rushing touchdown with just 41.5 seconds remaining. The quarter ended on a high note for Garfield when Deacon Sommer received a 16-yard pass from Eric Geddes into the end zone with 15.7 seconds left.

The 3rd quarter witnessed Liberty’s Tutwiler breaking free for a 49-yard rushing touchdown at 5:42. However, Garfield quickly responded with a 15-yard rushing touchdown by Grandizio.

The 4th quarter saw Liberty’s Tutwiler showcasing his speed once more with a breathtaking 74-yard rushing touchdown at 3:08, but it wasn’t enough to overcome Garfield’s dominant performance.

In the end, Garfield’s balanced offensive attack and resilient defense proved too much for Liberty to handle. The final score of 42-21 reflected Garfield’s continued success and their ability to overpower conference opponents. With this victory, Garfield maintained their impressive momentum and added another win to their impressive season record.

BLUE JAYS BATTLE THROUGH SCRAPPY VIKINGS

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**Jackson Milton Secures Their 5th Win of the Season with a 19-6 Victory Over Waterloo**

In a hard-fought contest, Jackson Milton displayed their resilience and determination, securing their 5th win of the season with a 19-6 victory over Waterloo. The game was a testament to both teams’ defensive prowess, with standout plays on both sides of the ball.

The 1st quarter set the tone for the game, as Brayden Greathouse unleashed an 8-yard sack on Waterloo’s Jayden Hakin. Jackson Milton’s Leo Hines made a game-changing play with a 35-yard interception return for a touchdown at 6:40. However, the 2-point conversion attempt was unsuccessful, leaving the score at 6-0 in favor of Jackson Milton. Cayden Mitchell came up clutch with an interception at his own 2-yard line, effectively halting Waterloo’s drive.

The 2nd quarter saw Waterloo’s defense recovering a fumble at the 50-yard line at 11:44. They repeated the feat with another fumble recovery, this time at Jackson Milton’s 30-yard line at 8:53. Jayden Hakin capitalized on the field position, scoring an 8-yard rushing touchdown at 5:21. Unfortunately, the 2-point conversion attempt fell short, resulting in a 6-6 tie. The quarter ended with a crucial interception in the end zone by Waterloo’s Bobby Harouff at 0:11.

The 3rd quarter witnessed Jackson Milton regaining the lead as Keegan White powered through with a 4-yard rushing touchdown at 8:01, followed by a successful PAT by Sam Coon, making it 13-6 for Jackson Milton. Cayden Mitchell showcased his defensive prowess once again with an interception at 7:41. Waterloo’s defense held strong with a goal-line stand on 4th and goal at the 1 at 3:12, taking over on downs. Jackson Milton returned the favor, stopping Waterloo on 4th and 1 at the Waterloo 20 with just 3 seconds left in the quarter.

The 4th quarter saw Joey Zayas making a significant impact with a sack on Jaydin Hakin for a 5-yard loss at 2:50. Jackson Milton sealed the game with a 1-yard rushing touchdown by Cayden Mitchell at 1:25, although the 2-point conversion attempt was unsuccessful, resulting in a final score of 19-6 in favor of Jackson Milton.

In the end, Jackson Milton’s tenacious defense and timely plays on offense proved to be the difference-makers in this closely contested matchup. The final score of 19-6 highlighted their ability to rise to the occasion, securing their 5th win of the season in impressive fashion.

KNIGHTS FLIP THE SCRIPT AND RUN AWAY FROM WALSH

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AKRON OH- In a game that was expected to be a close battle, the Hoban football team flipped the script and turned it into a one-sided affair, cruising to a convincing 57-7 victory over Walsh Jesuit. From the opening kickoff, Hoban asserted their dominance and left no doubt about their superiority on the field.

The 1st quarter witnessed Hoban’s explosive start as Payton Cook connected with Jalen Hightower for a 52-yard touchdown pass, with Ryan Burns adding the extra point to give them an early 7-0 lead. The onslaught continued with Tylan Boykin finding Joey Hardman for a 35-yard touchdown pass, followed by another successful PAT by Burns, extending their lead to 14-0. Hoban’s defense joined the party as Tysen Campbell intercepted a pass and returned it for a pick-six, making it 21-0. The defensive pressure continued as Eli Lee forced a safety with a sack, further increasing the lead to 23-0. Caleb Jones then powered through with a 3-yard rushing touchdown, complemented by another PAT by Burns, setting the score at 30-0. The 1st quarter ended with Elber Hill IV’s explosive 42-yard rushing touchdown, and Burns once again added the extra point, making it 37-0.

In the 2nd quarter, Caleb Jones continued his scoring spree with a 13-yard rushing touchdown, although the PAT attempt failed, leaving the score at 43-0. Just before halftime, Jones found the end zone again with a 6-yard rushing touchdown, and Burns added the extra point.

The 3rd quarter remained scoreless, but the fourth quarter saw Hoban’s Deon Rodgers returning a 15-yard punt for a touchdown, with Jeremy Hammel successfully converting the PAT, extending the lead to 57-0. Walsh Jesuit managed to avoid a shutout with a late 6-yard rushing touchdown by Carlos Smith, and Freddie Marcell added the extra point, resulting in a final score of 57-7 in favor of Hoban.

In the end, Hoban showcased their dominance on both sides of the ball, leaving Walsh Jesuit with no room to mount a comeback. The final score of 57-7 reflected Hoban’s overwhelming performance, turning what was expected to be a close game into a runaway victory.

WILDCATS CONTINUE TO RUN WILD

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CORTLAND OH- In a showcase of sheer dominance, the Struthers football team continued their impressive form with a resounding 40-6 victory over Lakeview. From the opening whistle, Struthers exhibited their relentless prowess on the field, leaving no doubt about their supremacy.

The 1st quarter set the tone for Struthers as Jason Dukes powered his way through with a 12-yard touchdown run, followed by a successful PAT, putting them ahead 7-0. Struthers continued to flex their offensive muscles when AC Carter exploded with a spectacular 73-yard touchdown run, complemented by another successful PAT, extending their lead to 14-0.

The 2nd quarter saw no letup from Struthers as AC Carter showcased his speed once again, sprinting for a 47-yard touchdown run, although the PAT was missed, making it 20-0 Struthers.

As the 3rd quarter unfolded, Struthers maintained their offensive momentum. Devin Braham added to the scoreboard with a 27-yard run, and a successful 2-point conversion extended their lead to 28-0.

The 4th quarter saw Struthers continuing their dominance, with Na’Jier Howard’s 2-yard touchdown run, although the PAT was missed, making it 34-0 Struthers. Lakeview managed to find the end zone with a 60-yard run by Hayden Bartram, but the PAT was unsuccessful, setting the score at Struthers 34, Lakeview 6.

Struthers had the last word, as Anthony Pastella capped off the impressive performance with a 19-yard touchdown run, sealing the victory at Struthers 40, Lakeview 6.

In the end, Struthers showcased their relentless offensive power, leaving Lakeview no room to counter. The final score of 40-6 reflected Struthers’ dominance on the field, as they cruised to another convincing win, making them look unstoppable once again.

SOUTHERN MAPS OUT DOMINATION ON THE ROAD

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COLUMBIANA OH- In a showdown of conference rivals, Southern unleashed a powerful display of football prowess, imposing their will on the field and securing an impressive 51-21 victory over Columbiana. The game featured thrilling moments and standout performances that left a lasting impression on fans.

The 1st quarter began with Columbiana drawing first blood as Kian Hartley powered through with a 3-yard touchdown run, complemented by Aidan Radcliff’s successful PAT, putting them ahead 7-0. However, Southern quickly responded with a lightning-fast Landen Heffner, who returned the kickoff 95 yards for a touchdown. The PAT by Yargo was good, leveling the score at 7-7. Columbiana wasn’t to be outdone, as Dylan Bregard caught a 37-yard touchdown pass from Liam Surgenavic, followed by Radcliff’s successful PAT, giving them a 14-7 lead.

The 2nd quarter continued to showcase the teams’ offensive prowess. Southern’s Landen Heffner made his presence felt with a 12-yard touchdown run, accompanied by a successful PAT by Yargo, tying the game at 14-14. Columbiana answered with a spectacular 82-yard touchdown run by Liam Surgenavic, with Radcliff adding the PAT, putting them back in the lead at 21-14. However, Southern’s Ryan Exline responded swiftly with a 17-yard touchdown run and a successful 2-point conversion, making it Southern 22, Columbiana 21.

The 3rd quarter saw Southern continuing their offensive onslaught. Landen Heffner punched in another touchdown with a 12-yard run, followed by a successful 2-point conversion, extending Southern’s lead to 30-21. The Southern defense also made its mark with Timmy Potts returning a fumble 25 yards for a touchdown, complemented by Yargo’s PAT, making it 37-21. Potts wasn’t finished, adding a 1-yard touchdown run, although the conversion attempt failed, setting the score at 43-21. Southern’s Landen Heffner capped off his outstanding performance with a 7-yard touchdown run, and Ryan Exline added a 2-point conversion, sealing the dominant victory at Southern 51, Columbiana 21.

In the end, Southern left an indelible mark with their powerful performance, showcasing their prowess on the field. The final score of 51-21 reflected their dominance in the game, and they secured an important victory over their conference rival, Columbiana.

BULLDOGS BOUNCE BACK IN THE DRAGONS DEN

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NILES OH- In a hard-fought battle on the gridiron, Poland bounced back from last week’s setback with a gritty 28-14 victory on the road over the Niles Dragons. The game featured a series of compelling moments that kept fans on the edge of their seats.

In the 1st quarter, Niles embarked on a promising drive, starting at their own 4-yard line. Anthony Budak’s precision passing, including a 36-yard completion to Kristopher Hrosar, and powerful carries by Antuan Gardner and Joe Smith, took them to the Poland 6. However, Niles missed a 23-yard field goal attempt. Poland responded with an 80-yard drive, culminating in Dom Pagano’s 2-yard touchdown run, and the PAT was good, putting them ahead 7-0.

The 2nd quarter saw Niles’ defense stepping up, stopping Poland on 4th down at the Poland 47-yard line. Then, Budak found Gardner with a 27-yard touchdown pass, and the successful PAT leveled the score at 7-7. Poland answered back with Cole Fulton’s 6-yard touchdown run, capping a drive that started at their own 31. The PAT was good, and Poland led 14-7.

As the 3rd quarter began, Poland executed a successful onside kick, gaining possession at the Niles 48-yard line. However, the Red Dragons’ defense stood firm, forcing a turnover on downs. Niles responded by punting, and Poland’s Cole Fulton unleashed a 52-yard touchdown run, extending their lead to 21-7. Niles answered with a 71-yard drive, with Anthony Budak rushing for a 2-yard touchdown to narrow the gap to 21-14.

In a pivotal moment, Cole Fulton, on the first play from scrimmage, broke free for a breathtaking 69-yard touchdown run. The successful PAT extended Poland’s lead to 28-14 with 4:32 left in the 3rd quarter.

The 4th quarter saw both teams trading possessions, but neither could find the end zone. Niles made a late-game push, blocking a punt with 2:08 remaining, but ultimately turned the ball over on downs.

In the end, Poland emerged victorious with a final score of 28-14. Poland improved to 6-1 (2-1) and looks forward to their next challenge against Girard, while Niles, now 5-2 (2-1), prepares to host South Range in their upcoming matchup.

LOWELLVILLE SHOWS OFF THEIR STRENGTH

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LOWELLVILLE OH- In a display of sheer dominance, Lowellville asserted their strength on the football field with an emphatic 40-6 victory over McDonald.

The game featured an eventful first quarter as McDonald’s defense made an early impact with Jayden Taylor recovering a fumble and returning it 32 yards for a touchdown, although their PAT attempt was unsuccessful. Lowellville quickly answered with a 3-yard touchdown run by Tino Rivera-Ocasio, followed by a successful PAT by Matt Lucido, giving them a 7-6 lead.

The second quarter saw Lowellville extend their advantage as quarterback Michael Ballone connected with Braylen Dabney for an 11-yard touchdown pass, and later, Ballone found Matt Lucido for a 14-yard TD pass, although the PAT was no good, making it 19-6.

The third quarter remained scoreless, but the fourth quarter belonged to Lowellville. Geno Perry powered through with a 14-yard touchdown run, followed by Ballone’s 51-yard rushing TD and a 28-yard TD pass by Ricky Wilrich to Bruce Brenner. With Matt Lucido’s successful PATs, Lowellville secured a commanding 40-6 win, showcasing just how strong of a team they are, and how tough they’ll be to beat in the MVAC.

POTTERS TAKE LAST SECOND VICTORY

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EAST LIVERPOOL OH- In a heart-pounding football clash, East Liverpool emerged victorious with a thrilling 17-14 win over Edison, sealed by a dramatic walk-off field goal. The game unfolded with intense action in each quarter.

In the 1st quarter, Edison’s Talon McClurg powered through for a 2-yard touchdown run, taking an early 7-0 lead. The 2nd quarter saw East Liverpool’s Gavin Wright connecting with Dorian Burchett on a spectacular 53-yard touchdown pass, leveling the score at 7-7.

In the 3rd quarter, Edison’s Talon McClurg struck again with a 4-yard TD run, giving his team a 14-7 advantage. However, East Liverpool answered back as Gavin Wright unleashed a 56-yard touchdown pass to Quinton Conrad, tying the game at 14-14 in the 3rd quarter.

The decisive moment arrived in the 4th quarter when Kamdin Miller of East Liverpool calmly slotted a 26-yard field goal with just 2.4 seconds remaining, sealing the victory with a final score of Potters 17, Edison 14. It was a game filled with excitement and suspense that will be remembered by fans for years to come.

URSULINE WINS BATTLE OF THE IRISH

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By Tim Corso 


Ursuline topped Akron St. Vincent-St. Mary Friday night in the battle of the Irish, 34-20.

It was Youngstown versus Akron, Reardon and Cistone, Ursuline and St.Vs.

​Defense was the story early in the ballgame as Ursuline set the tone early with a redzone takeaway when D.C. Ferrell picked off Sophomore quarterback Rylan Hurley in the endzone.

​Ursuline’s offense continued to sputter on its’ next drive, but the defense stood tall again, this time forcing a turnover-on-downs in their territory. The ensuing Irish drive found Ursuline converting on a 3rd and 16 when Jack Ericson connected with Devonte Taylor on a 20-yard touchdown strike to give them a 7-0 lead.

​Defense continued to be a story as late in the first half, being backed up on its’ own 4-yard line, Ericson fired a ball that was tipped at the line of scrimmage and intercepted for a touchdown by St. Vincent’s Daveion Wright in the final minute of the first half.

​What looked like a 7-0 Ursuline lead at halftime, turned into a stalemate with two quarters down.

​Whatever Dan Reardon said at halftime worked and worked well. Reardon’s squad forced a three-and-out to start the second half then jumped back in front when Ericson connected with Taylor for a second time, this time from 50 yards out.

​Ursuline would extend the lead on their next drive when a quick screen pass resulted in Ferrell breaking multiple tackles to find himself with a 28-yard score.

​Ericson threw three touchdowns in the win and racked his total up to 15 strikes on the year.

​However, St. Vincent-St. Mary wouldn’t go away.

​Trading punches, Hurley scampered for a 16-yard touchdown to answer. But Jy’Quise Liason responded to it with a 70-yard kickoff return for a touchdown; his second in as many weeks.

​Right then, it appeared an electric second half was on tap.

​Akron’s Sir Charles Gordon broke several Ursuline tackles just a couple of plays later that resulted in a 69-yard touchdown. Those scores in a matter of two minutes put the score at 27-20 right before the third quarter ended.

​Ursuline finished the game with four forced turnovers, with the last two being the biggest.

​The first came when Akron was driving and had the ball at Ursuline’s 9-yard line. It appeared that another stalemate was on the way when Tairan Davis intercepted Hurley in the endzone and returned 91 yards to the Akron 14-yard line. The next play, Christian Lynch gave his squad some insurance with a touchdown to make it 34-20.

​The second big turnover was a clutch interception by Liason with under five minutes to, for all intents and purposes, “call game”.

​At that point, all John DeSantis’ offense had to do was run the clock out and celebrate the first Ursuline win over Akron St. Vincent-St. Mary since October 28, 2011. Snapping the 10-game losing streak to Akron gave Ursuline its’ first 7-0 start since 2010.

Ursuline (7-0) will host Villa Angela-St. Joseph (5-2) next Friday night, October 6th at Stambaugh Stadium.