Tag Archive for: High School Football

MOONEY SHINES ON A SATURDAY

MINERAL RIDGE OH- On a sunny Saturday afternoon, the Cardinal Mooney football team delivered a commanding performance, cruising to a dominant 42-0 win over Lutheran East. From the first whistle, the Cardinals demonstrated their prowess, executing plays with precision and keeping their opponents on their heels.

The first quarter set the tone for Cardinal Mooney’s dominance. Quarterback Aston O’Brien displayed his passing skills, connecting with Carlos Gomez for a 16-yard touchdown pass, putting Mooney on the board early at 7-0. Shortly after, Cam Paige powered through the defense for a 1-yard rushing touchdown, extending the lead to 14-0. As the quarter came to a close, O’Brien found Keith Rhodes with a 27-yard touchdown pass, further asserting Mooney’s dominance at 22-0.

In the second quarter, the Cardinals continued to flex their offensive muscles. O’Brien connected with Cam Paige once more, this time for a 19-yard touchdown pass, pushing the score to 29-0. Just before halftime, O’Brien launched a 46-yard bomb to Matt Kay for yet another touchdown, taking a commanding 35-0 lead into the locker room.

The third quarter witnessed Logan Guerriri break free for a spectacular 71-yard touchdown run, adding to Mooney’s lead at 42-0 after a successful extra point.

Defensively, the Cardinals were equally impressive, keeping Lutheran East’s offense in check throughout the game. Mooney’s shutout performance was a testament to their cohesion and determination on both sides of the ball.

This convincing win improves Cardinal Mooney’s record, setting a strong foundation for their upcoming matchups. Their well-rounded offense, combined with a tenacious defense, bodes well for the Cardinals as they continue their football campaign.

WEST BRANCH BURIES THE TIGERS

BELOIT OH- West Branch continued their impressive form with a dominant performance, blanking Howland 49-0 and showcasing their prowess on both sides of the football.

In an all-around strong offensive display, West Branch demonstrated their versatility by accumulating a total of 152 rushing yards complemented by an impressive 289 passing yards. Boston Mulinix led the ground attack, churning out 57 yards on nine attempts, while CJ Bonnot added 50 yards from six carries.

Quarterback Beau Alazaus orchestrated a highly efficient passing game, completing 19 of 32 attempts for a remarkable 268 yards through the air. Alazaus wasn’t just satisfied with completions; he made a significant impact by throwing for three touchdowns.

Jeremiah Thomas emerged as a favorite target, hauling in 11 catches for a total of 139 yards. His precise routes and reliable hands played a crucial role in West Branch’s passing success.

Not to be overshadowed by their offensive prowess, the West Branch defense delivered a standout performance. They stifled Howland’s offense, allowing a mere 59 total yards throughout the game. This defensive excellence underscored West Branch’s well-rounded approach to the game.

With this commanding win, West Branch continued their hot streak, proving to be a formidable force on both sides of the ball. Their balanced offensive attack and stifling defense make them a team to watch as they look to maintain their winning ways and build on their impressive season.

VALLEY ESCAPES A SCARE IN THE BULLDOGS HOUSE

EAST PALESTINE OH- In a game that kept fans on the edge of their seats, Valley Christian managed to narrowly escape East Palestine’s determined Bulldogs with a 28-13 victory on the road, maintaining their position at the top of the EOAC standings.

Valley Christian asserted their dominance early, building a commanding 20-0 lead as the game reached the third quarter. However, East Palestine was far from done. Jesse Lipp of the Bulldogs found an opening and scored from close range, marking their first points of the game.

East Palestine continued to fight back, with Zach Schnelle making a crucial play by running it in from 13 yards out, narrowing the gap to 20-13. It seemed like an upset might be in the making.

But Valley Christian wasn’t ready to concede. Ja’Sean Lindsay, in a pivotal moment, capped off a significant Eagles’ response with a 24-yard touchdown, securing a late 28-13 lead.

Ike Lake played a vital role for Valley Christian, contributing with a pair of touchdowns, one through the air and another on the ground. Additionally, Geardon Traylor provided a game-changing play with a sensational 65-yard touchdown reception from quarterback Deion Miller.

East Palestine, though on the losing side, had notable individual performances. Owen Jurjavcic was instrumental, gaining 95 yards on 16 rushes and completing 15 of 28 passes for 168 yards. Jesse Lipp showcased his versatility with a rushing touchdown and a solid contribution on the ground, gaining 53 yards.

In a game that saw shifts in momentum and intense competition, Valley Christian ultimately held onto their EOAC lead. East Palestine’s spirited performance reminded everyone that they are a force to be reckoned with in the league, setting the stage for thrilling matchups in the games to come.

NILES CRASHES THE PARTY

CORTLAND OH- In an unexpected turn of events, the Niles football team delivered a dominating  performance as they crashed the party at Lakeview’s home field, clinching a commanding 31-0 victory over the Bulldogs.

The night undoubtedly belonged to Antuan Gardner, who showcased his incredible talent and determination on the field. Gardner bulldozed his way to an impressive 215 rushing yards, leaving the Lakeview defense helpless in their attempts to contain him. His remarkable performance included three touchdowns, making him an unstoppable force and a true game-changer for Niles.

Quarterback Tony Budak displayed his prowess in the passing game, connecting on two passes of 40 yards or more, with one of them resulting in a spectacular 50-yard touchdown strike. His precision and ability to make big plays through the air added a crucial dimension to Niles’ offensive arsenal.

Nate Coots was a force to be reckoned with on both sides of the ball. Not only did he contribute to Niles’ defensive prowess with a pair of crucial sacks and a forced fumble, but he also showcased his versatility by catching a touchdown on the offensive side.

Despite the outcome, Lakeview’s defense demonstrated resilience by forcing two turnovers. Nolan Toth’s fumble recovery and Heydon Newton’s interception showcased their determination to make plays even in the face of adversity.

With this dominant win, Niles made a resounding statement, leaving Lakeview and their fans in awe. The Bulldogs will surely look to regroup and come back stronger after this unexpected turn of events, while Niles will carry the momentum from this impressive victory into their future matchups.

 

IRISH STRIKE GOLD AGAINST HARDING

By Tim Corso


YOUNGSTOWN OH- Ursuline crushed Warren Harding 56-20 last night to remain perfect on the season.

The Irish offense scored on every possession it had in the first half in a nearly perfect offensive effort.

It came up passing for five of the first six plays, but it was Christian Lynch that started the scoring when he took the option pitch in for a 2-yard touchdown. That was the first of a pair of touchdowns for Lynch as he punched it in from 23 yards out later in the half.

After a three-and-out from Warren Harding, Jy’QuiseLiaison blocked a punt and gave Ursuline great field position at the Raider 38-yard line.

Irish signal caller Jack Ericson capped the team’s 38-yard drive with a 5-yard run.

Warren Harding would answer back soon, though. Junior quarterback Chazz Coleman led the Raiders on a long touchdown drive, coming up with clutch third down conversions multiple times. The drive was capped off by a 5-yard rushing touchdown from Coleman on a broken play.

Any hope the Raiders had to come back was squandered when Tairan Davis intercepted Coleman and put Ursuline in position to score another touchdown and flirt with a running clock.

From that point though, it was the Ursuline show, featuring Ericson and his plethora of weapons.

Ericson tallied five touchdowns, three through the air and a pair on the ground. Two of those touchdowns found D.C. Ferrell, while the other went to Devonte Taylor.

The Ursuline defense kept its’ stout season going with numerous sacks on the night from sophomore A.J. Snyder and company. Allowing just seven points while the Varsity was in, the Irish have now allowed just 11 points per game, including a pair of shutouts.

As for the offense, a deep and electric attack has resulted in them scoring 45.2 points per game through the halfway point on the year.

Ursuline’s (5-0) biggest test of the season will come next week, as they travel to Austintown-Fitch (4-1) to take on the Falcons. The highly anticipated matchup begins at 7 p.m., and is sure to live up to the hype.

 

POLAND SHOWCASES THEIR DOMINANCE

HUBBARD OH- In a commanding display of football prowess, Poland High School delivered a resounding 53-0 victory over Hubbard in conference play.

Poland’s performance was nothing short of dominant, racking up 16 first downs and showcasing a formidable ground game with 33 rushes for 144 yards. The offensive standout of the game was Dom Pagano, who displayed both his passing and rushing abilities. Pagano completed 11 of 16 passes for 170 yards, throwing two touchdowns with zero interceptions. He also made his mark on the ground, carrying the ball 11 times for 42 yards and adding two rushing touchdowns. In total, Poland’s offense amassed an impressive 276 yards.

The defensive side of the ball was equally impressive for Poland, forcing three turnovers and holding Hubbard to a mere 16 rushes for just 7 yards. Hubbard’s offense struggled to find its footing, managing only 16 total yards throughout the game.

This lopsided victory showcased Poland’s dominance on both sides of the ball and highlighted their ability to control the game from start to finish. With a convincing win like this, Poland solidified their standing in conference play and left no doubt about their football prowess.

FITCH PUTS ON A SHOW

AUSTINTOWN OH- In a commanding display of strength and skill, Fitch High School extended their winning streak with a resounding 41-0 victory over Stow Monroe Falls.

The first quarter set the tone for Fitch’s dominance, as DJ Williams opened the scoring with a 5-yard touchdown run, followed by a successful extra point, putting Fitch ahead 7-0. DeShawn Vaughn showcased his precision with a 7-yard touchdown pass to Dan Evans III (DE3), extending the lead to 14-0. Williams was back in action with a 1-yard touchdown run, and the extra point was good, leaving Fitch firmly in control at 21-0.

The second quarter continued the onslaught, with Deon’Dray Richard contributing a 6-yard touchdown run, further widening the gap to 28-0. Vaughn’s precision passing was on full display when he connected with Brady Evans for a 15-yard touchdown pass, putting Fitch ahead 35-0 as halftime approached.

Fitch’s dominance showed no signs of waning in the third quarter. Vaughn once again demonstrated his passing prowess with a 17-yard touchdown pass to Dan Evans III, who had an exceptional game. The extra point attempt was successful, sealing a commanding 41-0 lead for Fitch.

The game showcased Fitch’s formidable offense and stout defense, as they cruised to an impressive victory. With this performance, Fitch continued to build on their win streak and left no doubt about their prowess on the field.

BROOKFIELD MAKES LAST STAND TO SECURE OVERTIME WIN

LIBERTY OH- In a captivating matchup that extended into overtime, Brookfield High School emerged victorious with a thrilling 41-39 win over Liberty.

The first quarter set the tone for an action-packed game, as Brookfield’s Kaiden Kirila found the end zone with a 4-yard run, giving his team an early 7-0 lead. Liberty swiftly responded, with Tawann Tutwiler breaking through for a 13-yard touchdown run, leveling the score at 7-7.

The second quarter continued to provide fireworks, as Kirila punched in another touchdown, this time from 1 yard out, to regain the lead at 14-7 for Brookfield. Liberty’s Dawaun Moody countered with a 15-yard touchdown run, but a blocked extra point attempt left Brookfield ahead at 14-13. Brookfield extended their lead when Rico Smith broke free for a remarkable 37-yard touchdown run, with just 29.7 seconds left in the half, pushing the score to 21-13.

Liberty’s determination shone in the third quarter, as Dwayne Moody broke through for a 46-yard touchdown run, narrowing the gap to 21-19 despite a failed two-point conversion attempt by Liberty. Brookfield responded with Kirila’s 11-yard touchdown run, but another blocked extra point kept the score at 27-19.

The fourth quarter was filled with dramatic moments. Liberty’s Dawaun Moody plunged in for a 2-yard touchdown run, making it a 27-25 contest. Brookfield’s Rico Smith answered back with a 3-yard touchdown run, but the two-point conversion attempt failed, leaving the score at 33-25. Liberty’s Tawann Tutwiler then connected with Brandon Benson for an impressive 48-yard touchdown pass, followed by a successful two-point conversion that tied the game at 33-33.

As the clock ticked down, regulation couldn’t contain the excitement, and the game ventured into overtime. Brookfield’s Kirila proved pivotal once again, dashing into the end zone with a 12-yard run. A successful two-point conversion put Brookfield ahead 41-33. Liberty fought valiantly, scoring a touchdown during their overtime possession. However, Brookfield’s defense stood tall, thwarting Liberty’s two-point conversion attempt and securing a dramatic 41-39 victory.

The game showcased the resilience and determination of both teams, with Brookfield ultimately emerging as the triumphant side in this thrilling overtime contest.

TIGERS FEAST ON THE ROAD

VIENNA OH- In a one-sided football matchup, Springfield High School delivered an overwhelming performance against Mathews, securing a resounding 71-0 victory.

The first quarter showcased Springfield’s offensive prowess, with Kaesen Kosek leading the charge. Kosek powered through with a 2-yard touchdown run, although the extra point was unsuccessful. Shortly after, Kolten Raurk connected with a 23-yard touchdown pass, with Kosek successfully adding the extra point, extending Springfield’s lead to 13-0. Raurk continued to impress, unleashing a remarkable 70-yard screen pass to Dylan Sheely for another touchdown, and Kosek once again converted the extra point, pushing the score to 20-0. Springfield’s dominance persisted when Kosek recovered a blocked punt and converted the ensuing extra point, increasing their lead to 27-0.

The second quarter was equally lopsided, as Dante Gentile broke through for a 43-yard touchdown run, complemented by Kosek’s successful extra point, making it 34-0. Joey Centofanti joined the scoring frenzy with a 20-yard touchdown run, with the extra point adding another seven points to the scoreboard, now 41-0 in favor of Springfield. A misfortunate snap during a punt attempt led to a safety, accumulating two more points for Springfield, and bringing the score to 43-0. Springfield didn’t let up, as Noah Troggio recorded a 15-yard touchdown run, and Kosek once again converted the extra point, elevating the lead to 50-0.

In the third quarter, Springfield continued their domination with Dante Gentile’s 20-yard touchdown run, coupled with another successful extra point by Kosek, resulting in a commanding 57-0 advantage. Noah Troggio found the end zone once more with a 2-yard touchdown run, and Kosek’s extra point made it 64-0.

The final quarter saw Springfield’s Evan Mericle break through with a 25-yard touchdown run, and Kosek’s extra point put the finishing touches on an impressive 71-0 victory for Springfield over Mathews. The game showcased Springfield’s offensive prowess and unrelenting determination from start to finish.

PADUA SPOILS SALEM’S PLANS

SALEM OH- Salem endured a challenging battle on the football field, ultimately falling to Padua Franciscan with a final score of 39-21.

The first quarter began with a strong push from Padua as Roderick Love surged into the end zone with a 19-yard touchdown run. Padua successfully converted the two-point conversion, putting them ahead 8-0.

In the second quarter, Love continued his impressive performance, scoring another touchdown on a 20-yard run, and once again, Padua executed a successful two-point conversion, increasing their lead to 16-0. Salem responded with determination as Marcus Phillips broke through for a two-yard touchdown run, and Brayden Gibson’s extra point was good, closing the gap to 16-7. However, Padua struck back with Love’s 32-yard touchdown run, and Caleb Zolkowski’s extra point made it 23-7 in favor of Padua.

The third quarter saw Padua maintain their momentum, with Love breaking away for a 46-yard touchdown run, and Zolkowski’s successful extra point extended their lead to 30-7. Love’s incredible performance continued with a stunning 69-yard touchdown run, although the extra point attempt was no good, the score moved to 36-7 in favor of Padua.

In the final quarter, Padua added to their lead with a 30-yard field goal by Caleb Zolkowski, bringing the score to 39-7. Salem, not ready to give up, found the end zone once more with a 47-yard touchdown run by Marcus Phillips, and Gibson’s extra point made it 39-14. A late surge from Salem saw Cletis Monroy score on a nine-yard touchdown run, with Gibson converting the extra point, but it wasn’t enough to overcome Padua’s lead, resulting in a final score of 39-21 in favor of Padua Franciscan.

Salem fought hard throughout the game, showcasing their determination and resilience, but ultimately, Padua Franciscan secured the victory.