Tag Archive for: High School Football

SOUTHERN STRIKES FAST IN WEEK TEN

Southern’s Week 10 showdown at home against Leetonia turned into an unrelenting display of dominance as they secured a commanding 47-0 victory.

The first quarter set the stage for Southern’s triumph, with a series of rapid touchdowns. Timmy Potts initiated the scoring with a 1-yard touchdown run, giving Southern an early 7-0 lead just 10 minutes and 36 seconds into the game. Ayden Frischkorn added to the onslaught, breaking free for a 10-yard touchdown run at 9:31. Ryan Exline’s 5-yard touchdown run, although the PAT was blocked, stretched the lead to 20-0 with 5:27 left in the first quarter. Landen Heffner then joined the party, with a 15-yard touchdown run and an explosive 55-yard touchdown dash, bringing the score to 33-0 and concluding a dominant first quarter.

Heffner was far from finished, adding a 39-yard touchdown run with 3:19 left in the second quarter. Southern continued their dominance into the third quarter when Colton Spahlinger sealed the game with a 3-yard touchdown run, resulting in the final score of 47-0.

On the Leetonia side, Cameron Roller’s performance was a bright spot, as he set a program single-season tackle record with an impressive total of 106 tackles.

URSULINE HAILS AS THE VICTORS IN THE HOLY WAR

By Tim Corso 


YOUNGSTOWN OH- Ursuline used a big second half to capture its’ 5
th straight win over Cardinal Mooney Friday night, 35-16. The annual Holy War between two of the area’s most historic programs wrote another chapter at Stambaugh Stadium last night.

A thrilling 13-7 win for the Irish last year left fans itching for more. The first half of this game had a familiar feeling. The tight knit battle was led by the defenses. Ursuline took the ball to start the game and wasted no time. After a long Jack Ericson run to the Cardinals’ 5-yard line, Christian Lynch punched it in from a yard out.

Back and forth they went as Mooney answered with a William Desmond touchdown grab, that was then answered by D.C. Ferrell with a score of his own. In a game full of tension, the light shined bright on Lynch as he eclipsed 200 yards and three touchdowns to leave no doubt for Coach Reardon. Lynch’s other scores came from six and 27 yards.

However, Mooney’s defense kept pace with the Irish offense early on, forcing a couple turnovers-on-downs, giving Ashton O’Brien and company a shot. O’Brien didn’t get much going passing the ball but seemed to find a knack for scrambling out of the pocket to hurt the Ursuline defense, time and time again.

After the weather calmed down and the second half began, Carl Pelini had aggression on his mind, taking a shot on the very first play of the third quarter. However, Jy’Quise Liason picked off the pass, forcing the first turnover of the game. Pelini’s defense responded by forcing a Christian Lynch fumble on the ensuing drive, but the Cardinal Mooney offense failed to gain any traction.

Late in the fourth after the third of Lynch’s touchdowns, O’Brien kept hope alive after getting his own rushing touchdown in the redzone. A consistent Cardinals’ defense gave the offense another shot, but Ursuline had other ideas. Sophomore Safety Luke Kollar had a key interception in the Holy War last year while starting as a freshman. This year, he decided to one-up himself.

With Mooney in desperation mode with less than two minutes left, an errant pass from O’Brien fell right into the lap of Kollar and was brought back 60 yards for an emphatic touchdown that sent the Irish into the night with style.

Ursuline (10-0) finishes off its’ first undefeated regular season since 2010, clinches its’ 5th consecutive Steel Valley Conference championship, and secured the number one seed in Region 9. They’ll host the 16-seed (New Philadelphia or Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin) next Friday at Stambaugh Stadium.

For Cardinal Mooney (5-5), they find themselves as either the 8 or 9 seed in Region 13 and will wait to find its opponent for next week.

THE KEY TO THE HEART

COLUMBIANA OH- Kian Hartley, the senior running back from Columbiana, is not just a football player; he’s a powerhouse on the field. Over the years, Hartley has undergone remarkable growth, both mentally and physically, and it’s his relentless work ethic and well-timed growth spurts that have transformed him into a true force on the field.

Standing tall at 6’2″ and weighing in at 205 pounds, Hartley is a daunting presence on the gridiron. He’s not one to shy away from contact; in fact, he embraces it. Why bother trying to juke a tackler when you can simply run them over? This hard-hitting running style has become Hartley’s signature move, making him a nightmare for defenders attempting to bring him down. But Hartley is not just about brute strength; he also boasts impressive speed, with a 4.69-second 40-yard dash time that allows him to outpace opponents when given the open field.

What truly sets Hartley apart is his extraordinary strength. His weight room numbers are nothing short of astonishing, as he can bench press 300 lbs, squat an incredible 405 lbs, and deadlift a jaw-dropping 505 lbs. These impressive stats are a testament to his dedication to physical conditioning and his ability to overpower opponents.

Hartley’s list of athletic achievements is equally impressive and demonstrates the impact he’s had on the field:

– As a sophomore, he earned All-EOAC honors.
– He was also recognized as All-Columbiana County during his sophomore year.
– Adding to his accolades, he received All-Quad County recognition.
– In his junior year, he was named a Big 22 Contender, showcasing his prowess on the field.
– He continued to shine with First Team All-EOAC honors in his junior year.
– Hartley’s excellence extended to being named First Team All-Columbiana County.
– He was also a standout on the First Team Mohoning County All-Star roster.
– All-NEIOD recognition solidified his status as a top-tier player.
– His remarkable skills earned him First Team All-Quad County honors.
– In addition, he was featured on the First Team All-Morning Journal list.
– Three years of dedication earned him the title of a three-year letterman.
– Perhaps most notably, he was crowned Team Defensive MVP, a title voted on by his coaches during his junior year.

Kian Hartley’s journey through the world of football is marked by an unwavering commitment to becoming the best player he can be. With his incredible size, strength, and a running style that strikes fear into opponents, he’s proven time and again that he’s a true force to be reckoned with on the field. As he enters his senior season, the future looks bright for this remarkable athlete, and the football world will undoubtedly be watching as he continues to dominate the game.

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ROCKETS SPEED PAST WATERLOO

ATWATER OH- In an impressive display of dominance, the Lowellville Rockets soared to a commanding 40-8 victory over Waterloo in Week 9. The Rockets left no room for doubt, showcasing their prowess throughout the game.

Lowellville quickly established their presence in the game when Michael Ballone connected with Matt Lucido for a sensational 65-yard passing touchdown. This early strike put Lowellville ahead 7-0, leaving Waterloo with a challenging climb ahead. The touchdown occurred with 4:22 remaining in the first quarter.

The Rockets continued to expand their lead in the second quarter. Geno Perry powered through for a 2-yard rushing touchdown, increasing Lowellville’s advantage to 13-0. This impressive run occurred with 11:15 left in the second quarter.

Tino Rivera-Ocasio added to Lowellville’s offensive prowess with a remarkable 52-yard rushing touchdown at 3:56 in the second quarter. This outstanding play extended the lead to 20-0.

Just before the end of the first half, Michael Ballone showcased his skill again. He launched a 28-yard passing touchdown to Landon Esenwein. The pass was tipped in the air, resulting in a jump ball that Esenwein skillfully grabbed. With 33 seconds left in the second quarter, Lowellville held a commanding 26-0 lead.

The third quarter brought no respite for Waterloo as Lowellville continued to assert their dominance. Tino Rivera-Ocasio, already having a standout game, secured his second rushing touchdown, this time for 26 yards. The extra point was good, pushing the score to 33-0 with 7:39 remaining in the third quarter.

Codi Nofli joined the scoring frenzy with a 3-yard rushing touchdown. The extra point was successful, making it 40-0 Lowellville.

In the final quarter, Waterloo managed to find the end zone with Luke Thomas scoring a rushing touchdown and a successful two-point conversion

CLIPPERS CLAP WELLSVILLE

COLUMBIANA OH- In an electrifying display of strength and skill, Columbiana put on a show for their home fans, delivering a resounding 53-7 victory over Wellsville. The Columbiana Clippers left no room for doubt, dominating the game from start to finish.

Columbiana wasted no time setting the tone as Parker Bush orchestrated a 2-yard touchdown run. Aidan Radcliff’s successful PAT put the Clippers on the board at 7-0 with 8:09 remaining in the first quarter.

Kian Hartley then showcased his prowess with a 1-yard touchdown run, extending Columbiana’s lead to 14-0. Radcliff’s accurate PAT added to the Clippers’ momentum at 4:36.

Hartley wasn’t finished yet, following up with a 2-yard touchdown run. Although the conversion attempt failed, Columbiana commanded a 20-0 lead with 3:12 remaining in the opening quarter.

Columbiana’s offensive prowess continued into the second quarter, with Parker Bush making a 1-yard touchdown run. Radcliff’s PAT was on the money, pushing the score to 27-0 at 7:13.

Liam Surgenavic then dazzled the home crowd with a spectacular 48-yard touchdown run. Radcliff’s precise PAT brought the score to 34-0 at 4:44.

As the Clippers continued to excel on both sides of the ball, Surgenavic added to his standout performance with a 35-yard interception return for a touchdown. Radcliff’s PAT extended Columbiana’s lead to a commanding 41-0 with just 1:22 left in the first half.

Columbiana’s offensive prowess showed no signs of letting up as Cameron Clancy powered through with a 2-yard touchdown run. Although the PAT was blocked, the Clippers maintained a substantial 47-0 lead at 3:10.

In the final quarter, Wellsville managed to put points on the board with Richie Dowling’s 16-yard touchdown run. Tyrell Watkins’ successful PAT made the score 47-7 at 4:38.

Columbiana wasn’t done yet. Hayes McCoy sprinted 55 yards for a touchdown, capping off the game with an emphatic exclamation point. With the running clock winding down, no PAT attempt was made, and the game concluded with a decisive 53-7 victory for the Columbiana Clippers.

 

UNITED HOLDS ON TO THEIR FIRST PLACE SPOT

HANOVERTON OH- In a battle of the Eagles, it was United who rose to the occasion and secured a commanding 38-6 victory over Valley Christian. The win allows United to maintain their first-place position in the EOAC, showcasing their strength and determination on the football field.

United wasted no time in getting on the scoreboard in the first quarter, with Luke Courtney making a 21-yard touchdown run. The successful extra point put United ahead 7-0 with 6:12 remaining in the quarter.

Continuing their offensive dominance, United extended their lead in the second quarter. Andrew Ogilvie’s 1-yard touchdown run capped off a 65-yard drive, giving United a 14-0 lead at 9:56 in the second quarter.

United further solidified their advantage as Luke Courtney nailed a 27-yard field goal as time expired in the second quarter, bringing the score to 17-0 at halftime.

United maintained their momentum in the third quarter when Dan Milburn returned the opening kickoff an impressive 72 yards for a touchdown, further extending their lead to 24-0.

Luke Courtney’s explosive 50-yard run set up Andrew Ogilvie’s 4-yard touchdown run, pushing United to a commanding 31-0 lead.

United continued to dominate in the final quarter when they recovered a fumble at Valley Christian’s 39-yard line. In the very next play, Andrew Ogilvie sprinted 39 yards for a touchdown, further solidifying United’s lead at 38-0.

Valley Christian managed to get on the board when Ja’Sean Lindsey made a 4-yard touchdown run, making the score 38-6.

The game concluded with a resounding 38-6 victory for United, highlighting their prowess on both sides of the ball and their determination to maintain their first-place position in the EOAC.

United, now 8-1 overall and 5-1 in the league, is set to return home to face East Palestine in their next matchup. Meanwhile, Valley Christian, with a record of 4-5 overall and 3-3 in the league, is scheduled to take on Columbiana in their upcoming game.

URSULINE STILL LOOKS GOLDEN

Ursuline topped Chaney 32-16 last night in a Steel Valley Conference clash. A late Cowboy comeback fell short late in the fourth after it was two fourth quarter touchdowns that gave them a hint of hope. On the first play of the frame senior quarterback, Drew Gault connected with wideout Javeon Young from 27-yards out for the score, then completed the next pass to Jordan Hewlett to make the 2-point conversion.

After holding the Ursuline offense scoreless in the fourth, Gault was able to throw his second touchdown strike with 1:52left to Hewlett to put them closer at 32-16. However, time ran out and that was in thanks to Christian Lynch and co. The Ursuline offense looked electric in the second quarter, posting three touchdowns.

Quarterback Jack Ericson scored three touchdowns in the game with the first going to Devonte Taylor for a 3-yard touchdown to open the scoring. Ericson also found D.C. Ferrell late in the second on a second and goal from the 25-yard line.  Ericson also ran one in to bring his season total of touchdowns to 23.

As the saying goes, when one door closes another door opens: but not here. Thinking they held off any more Irish scoring, the Cowboys gave Ursuline the ball back with a few ticks under two minutes left in the half, and the up-tempo Ursuline offense left Chaney disoriented. Trying to line up while the Irish were on the fringe of the redzone, Lynch found a hole up the middle and left the red helmets in his dust on the 24-yard score. That would prove to be the winning touchdown for Dan Reardon’s troops, and it was just halftime.

Lynch would add his second of the game, and 16th of the season late in third quarter to slam the door shut. As the Cowboy’s comeback fell short, the Victory Bell rung on Wick Avenue, improving Ursuline to 9-0 and still holding the coveted top seed in Division 3, Region 9.

Chaney fell to 4-4 and will take on rival East next Friday,October 20. For Ursuline, they have the Holy War with Cardinal Mooney at Stambaugh Stadium, next Friday. The Irish are looking for its’ 5th consecutive conference crown as well as five straight wins over the Cardinals.

DRAGONS TURN UP HEAT AGAINST SPARTANS

Photo Credit: CM Photography

Ashtabula, OH- In their final home game of the season, the Lakeside Dragons soared to a resounding victory against the Conneaut Spartans with a final score of 30-6. The Dragons started the game with a fiery determination that would set the tone for the evening.

The first quarter saw Lakeside’s tall and agile quarterback, Alex DiSalvatore, make an explosive 23-yard touchdown run, setting the crowd ablaze with excitement. A successful two-point conversion added a stamp to the drive, giving Lakeside an early 8-0 lead.

The second quarter was no different, with Lakeside’s Nate Bartone bulldozing his way into the end zone with a 1-yard touchdown run. Once again, the Dragons successfully converted for two additional points, further extending their lead to 16-0.

As the game progressed into the third quarter, Conneaut’s Max Gleason managed to score a 2-yard touchdown run, finally getting the Spartans on the board. However, their two-point conversion attempt fell short, leaving the score at 16-6 in favor of Lakeside.

Lakeside was far from finished, though, as Devan Miller electrified the crowd with a breathtaking 67-yard touchdown run. Another successful two-point conversion left the score at 24-6, firmly solidifying the Dragons’ dominance.

In the fourth quarter, Nate Bartone once again demonstrated his prowess by scoring a 10-yard touchdown run. Although the two-point conversion was unsuccessful this time, the Dragons maintained a comfortable lead of 30-6.

With the final whistle, Lakeside celebrated a resounding victory, improving their record to 4-5 and 2-2 in the CVC Lake Division. Their sights are now set on the “Battle for the Bridge” in Week 10, where they will face their crosstown rivals, the Edgewood Warriors. This match holds significant importance, as the winner will secure a better playoff position in the OHSAA state football playoffs.

The Conneaut Spartans, with a 5-4 record and a 2-2 standing in the CVC Lake Division, will take on the Madison Blue Streaks in Week 10. The Spartans have already secured their playoff spot and now aim for a home game in the first round with a victory over Madison.

Lakeside’s backfield powerhouse, Nate Bartone, was the star of the night, rushing for over 100 yards and contributing two crucial touchdowns to the team’s impressive victory. The Dragons now look forward to their next challenge, while fans eagerly anticipate “The Battle for the Bridge” and the thrilling football action that lies ahead.

SALEM CAN’T OVERCOME DUKES STRONG START

SALEM OH- In an intense battle on the gridiron, Marlington managed to secure a hard-fought 37-20 victory over Salem. The contest was marked by some impressive plays on both sides, but it was Marlington’s consistency that ultimately made the difference.

Marlington set the tone early in the game, with Beau Himmelheber connecting with Koby Vance for a 19-yard touchdown pass. David Hoebeke’s extra point was good, giving Marlington a 7-0 lead.

Continuing their momentum, Marlington added another touchdown when Himmelheber found Vance again, this time on a 7-yard pass. Hoebeke’s successful extra point extended Marlington’s lead to 14-0.

Marlington didn’t let up in the second quarter, as Himmelheber showcased his versatility with a 29-yard touchdown run. Hoebeke’s extra point was good, increasing Marlington’s lead to 21-0.

Shortly before halftime, Himmelheber contributed another touchdown, this time with a 9-yard run. Despite a missed extra point, Marlington held a commanding 27-0 lead at the break.

Salem fought back in the third quarter, with Gavin Colbert connecting with Will Harmon on a 10-yard touchdown pass. Troy Gibson’s extra point was good, bringing Salem’s score to 7. Marlington still led 27-7.

However, Marlington answered right back with another touchdown, as Himmelheber recorded a 7-yard run. Hoebeke’s extra point extended Marlington’s lead to 34-7.

Salem wasn’t ready to concede, and they responded with a 70-yard touchdown pass from Colbert to Marcus Phillips. Despite a missed extra point, Salem narrowed the gap to 34-13.

In the final quarter, Marlington added to their lead with a 22-yard field goal by David Hoebeke, bringing the score to 37-13.

Salem managed to secure another touchdown before the game’s end, as Marcus Phillips ran for a 1-yard score. Troy Gibson’s extra point was good, concluding the game with a score of 37-20 in favor of Marlington.

Game Photos HERE: https://ysn.smugmug.com/1013-fb-salem-marlington

STRUTHERS SETS UP DOMINATING DEFENSE

STRUTHERS OH- In a battle of local rivals, Struthers continued their impressive run as their defense secured a shutout victory, defeating Niles with a final score of 21-0. With a strong defensive performance, Struthers kept Niles off the scoreboard and extended their winning streak.

The opening quarter saw no scoring, but it was clear that both teams were gearing up for a competitive matchup. The tension on the field was palpable as they entered the second quarter.

The second quarter ignited the scoring as Struthers made their mark. Devin Braham showcased his skills with an impressive 36-yard touchdown run, providing Struthers with a 7-0 lead. As the quarter was winding down, Jason Dukes powered his way through Niles’ defense with a 2-yard rushing touchdown, expanding Struthers’ lead to 13-0. However, the point-after-touchdown attempt was unsuccessful.

In the third quarter, Struthers continued to assert their dominance. Jason Dukes had another moment in the spotlight, this time with an 11-yard rushing touchdown. Not content with just the touchdown, Struthers opted for a 2-point conversion to further strengthen their lead, resulting in a score of 21-0.

With no response from Niles’ offense and Struthers’ defense standing strong, the third quarter concluded with Struthers maintaining their commanding lead.

The final whistle confirmed Struthers’ victory with a score of 21-0, thanks in large part to their exceptional defensive performance. Struthers’ defense was relentless, consistently thwarting Niles’ offensive attempts and securing the shutout.

Struthers’ impressive run continues, and they look to maintain their momentum in the upcoming games. Niles, on the other hand, aims to regroup and come back stronger after this challenging contest.