Tag Archive for: High School Football

DON’T MESS WITH THE CATS

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STRUTHERS OH-

In a dominating performance, the Struthers Wildcats continued their winning streak with a resounding victory over Youngstown East, finishing the game with a commanding score of 34-8.

The first quarter set the tone for Struthers as Devin Braham powered through with a 4-yard rushing touchdown. Although the PAT was missed, Struthers took an early 6-0 lead.

The second quarter saw Struthers extending their lead as AC Carter bulldozed his way into the end zone with a 3-yard rushing touchdown, and the Wildcats executed a successful two-point conversion, bringing the score to 14-0. Devin Braham then showcased his talent with a 17-yard rushing touchdown, and this time the PAT was good, widening Struthers’ lead to 21-0 at halftime.

Struthers continued to dominate in the third quarter, with Na’Jier Howard orchestrating a well-executed play. Howard handed off to Jason Dukes, who then passed to Robert Carcelli for a 5-yard touchdown. Unfortunately, the PAT was missed, but Struthers now had a commanding 27-0 lead.

The Wildcats’ defense proved relentless as Devin Braham intercepted a pass and returned it for an impressive 52-yard defensive touchdown in the third quarter. The PAT was successful, pushing Struthers further ahead at 34-0.

In the fourth quarter, Youngstown East managed to get on the scoreboard with a touchdown pass from Andrew Blackmon to Tyris Davis for 49 yards. They successfully executed a two-point conversion, bringing the final score to 34-8 in favor of Struthers.

The Struthers Wildcats showcased their dominance on both sides of the ball, delivering a convincing victory and maintaining their winning momentum throughout the game.

KNIGHTS JUST KEEP GOING

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AKRON OH- In a high-stakes matchup, the Hoban Knights managed to maintain their perfect record with a hard-fought victory over the talented Glenville team, closing the game with a score of 28-16.

The first quarter showcased the early back-and-forth battle, with Glenville’s Damarion Witten breaking through with a 29-yard touchdown run, followed by a successful two-point conversion by D’Shawntae Jones. Glenville took the lead at 8-0, but Hoban was quick to respond. In a thrilling turn of events, Elbert Hill IV electrified the crowd with a remarkable 92-yard kickoff return for a touchdown. The Knights successfully converted the extra point, narrowing the score to 8-7. Hoban then seized control as Tylan Boykin connected with Brayton Feister for a 20-yard touchdown pass, capping off a successful drive and taking a 14-8 lead.

The second quarter continued to favor the Knights as Brayton Feister powered through for a 1-yard touchdown run, extending Hoban’s lead to 21-8. Later in the quarter, Tylan Boykin showcased his passing prowess once again, finding Deon Rodgers for an 11-yard touchdown pass. The extra point by Ryan Burns was good, and Hoban established a commanding 28-8 lead heading into halftime.

Despite the Knights’ dominance, Glenville wasn’t ready to concede. In the third quarter, D’Shawntae Jones fought his way into the end zone with a 15-yard touchdown run, and Glenville executed a successful two-point conversion. The score now stood at 28-16, but neither team could find the scoreboard again throughout the rest of the game.

In the end, the Hoban Knights secured their perfect season, emerging victorious with a final score of 28-16. It was a thrilling contest filled with remarkable plays and hard-fought efforts from both sides, highlighting the determination and skill of these talented high school football teams.

IRISH BREAK LOOSE TO OUTLAST VIKINGS

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By Tim Corso 


YOUNGSTOWN OH- Ursuline used a big second half to secure a decisive win over Villa Angela-St. Joseph 38-18 Friday night.

​Adversity was a common theme for both squads, as the Irish turned it over twice while the Vikings had three. However, Villa’s miscues cost them more.

​Bo Jackson’s touchdown runs of seven and two pushed the Vikings out to a 12-7 lead early.

​Shortly after an Ursuline drive stalled out, Viking quarterback Kylan Steuball misfired on a screen pass that went right to Tairan Davis for a 40-yard interception return for a touchdown to put Ursuline back on top 14-12.

​However, it wasn’t long before senior tailback Amani Powell scored on a 12-yard run to give Villa the lead back, 18-14.

​Back and forth the game went as Christian Lynch, who fumbled earlier in the game, scored his second touchdown of the night to put Ursuline up 21-18 at the half.

​The start of the second half was set up to be a decisive defensive drive for Villa when D.C. Ferrell had other ideas.

​Ferrell took the opening kickoff of the third quarter 85 yards to the end zone. Just like that a back-and-forth game turned into Ursuline up two scores, with all the momentum.

​Even then, Ferrell wasn’t done. Late in the third, with the Vikings driving inside Irish territory, Steuball took a shot for the end zone on a 3rd and 30 play. The underthrown ball was snagged out of mid-air by Ferrell and down at the 2-yard line.

​Not much later, Lynch capped off a long Ursuline drive with a 2-yard touchdown run that proved to be the dagger.

​The battle between Ursuline and Vill Angela-St. Joseph was a highly anticipated one between two teams vying for the top spot in Division 3, Region 9. With the win, the Irish officially clinched a playoff spot, and likely a top four seed.

​Ursuline (8-0) will host Chaney (4-3) in a Steel Valley Conference showdown next Friday, October 13th.

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SPARTANS PROTECT THEIR HOME AGAINST RIVAL WARRIORS

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Photo Credit: Noelle Nunes

Conneaut, OH- In another meeting between 2 of Ashtabula County’s oldest rivals, the Conneaut Spartans clashed with the Edgewood Warriors in a high-stakes matchup that had fans on the edge of their seats. It was a game that showcased the resilience and determination of both teams, but in the end, the Conneaut Spartans emerged victorious with a final score of 27-24.

The first quarter set the tone for the game, with Conneaut’s Max Gleason bulldozing his way into the end zone with a powerful 7-yard touchdown run. Unfortunately, the PAT was no good, putting Conneaut ahead 6-0. However, Edgewood responded swiftly as Tony Hall orchestrated a 1-yard TD run, and Samuel Linder’s extra point was good, giving Edgewood the lead at 7-6. The momentum swings continued as Conneaut’s Wyatt Payne electrified the crowd with an 89-yard kickoff return for a touchdown, and Bryce Spurlin’s extra point was successful, putting Conneaut back in the lead at 13-7. Just minutes later, Edgewood’s Tony Hall connected with Jacob Ernst for a 35-yard touchdown pass, and the extra point was good, giving Edgewood a narrow 14-13 lead to end the first quarter.

The second quarter saw both teams fighting tooth and nail. Max Gleason bulldozed his way into the end zone again, this time with a 2-yard TD run, and Spurlin’s extra point was good, putting Conneaut up 20-14. But Edgewood wasn’t going down without a fight, and Samuel Linder nailed a 30-yard field goal with just three seconds left in the half, cutting Conneaut’s lead to 20-17 at halftime.

The third quarter remained scoreless, as both defenses stepped up their game, refusing to yield any ground. It was a true battle of wills.

The fourth quarter, however, would prove decisive. With 9:05 left on the clock, Max Gleason powered his way into the end zone for the third time, this time with a 2-yard touchdown run, and the extra point was good, extending Conneaut’s lead to 27-17. Edgewood wasn’t ready to give up, as Tony Hall once again connected with Jacob Ernst, this time on a 30-yard touchdown pass, and the extra point was good, closing the gap to 27-24.

In the end, the Conneaut Spartans managed to hold onto their lead and secure the hard-fought victory. With this win, they improved their record to 5-3, with a 2-1 standing in the CVC Lake Division. Meanwhile, Edgewood’s Tony Hall continued to shine, setting a school record with his 21st and 22nd touchdown passes of the season, despite the loss. The Edgewood Warriors moved to 4-4 on the season, with a 0-3 standing in the CVC Lake Division.

Looking ahead, the Conneaut Spartans will face off against the Lakeside Dragons in week 9, while the Edgewood Warriors will take on the Jefferson Falcons. With the season heating up, fans can expect more thrilling matchups and unforgettable moments on the gridiron.

EAGLES SOAR OVER DRAGONS

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Geneva, OH- In a matchup against the formidable Geneva Eagles, the Lakeside Dragons found themselves struggling to keep up throughout the game. The Geneva offense displayed their dominance early in the first quarter, with Luke Smith breaking away for an impressive 53-yard touchdown run, quickly followed by Owen Pfiefer’s successful extra point. This set the tone for what would be a difficult game for Lakeside, as they fell behind 7-0.

As the first quarter continued, Geneva’s Haiden Deimer stunned the Lakeside defense with a breathtaking 60-yard touchdown run, extending their lead to 14-0. The second quarter brought no relief for Lakeside, as Geneva’s Bryce Peet and Luke Smith added more touchdowns, with Peet’s 26-yard run and Smith’s 25-yard run both capped with successful extra points. The score at halftime was 35-0 in favor of Geneva, leaving Lakeside with a challenging hill to climb.

In the waning moments of the third quarter, Geneva’s Luke Barbo further extended their lead with a 12-yard touchdown run, and the extra point was good. Lakeside managed to put points on the board when Alex DiSalvatore punched in a 4-yard touchdown run, but their two-point conversion attempt was unsuccessful, leaving the score at 42-6.

The fourth quarter saw Geneva’s Parker Williams adding one more touchdown with a 2-yard run, securing the victory with the extra point. The final score stood at 49-6 in favor of the Geneva Eagles.

Despite the tough loss, the Lakeside Dragons will look to regroup and prepare for their upcoming matchup against the Conneaut Spartans in week 9. Geneva Eagles, on the other hand, continue their impressive season with a 7-1 record and are set to face the Madison Blue Streaks, setting the stage for an exciting showdown in the CVC Lake Division.

EAST PALESTINE FOOTBALL COACH’S CORNER (EP 2) WITH MIKE DEMSTER

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EAST PALESTINE OH- Every step that East Palestine football has taken this season has led them to this moment. They are coming off their first win of the season, and their first conference win in a while.  Now they get to experience a week of work coming off a win. While there’s still plenty to work on, you can tell the energy in the locker room gets notched up a tick after a victory. The players begin to really trust the process when they tangible results on the field.

Tim Figley had the chance to catch up with head coach Mike Demster to talk about the week coming off a win. You won’t want to miss this exclusive conversation as the Bulldogs prepare for Columbiana in Week 8.  Check out Episode 2 of Coach’s Corner With Mike Demster exclusively on YSN!

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MINERAL RIDGE RUNS DOWN THE MUSTANGS

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MINERAL RIDGE OH- In an impressive display of dominance, Mineral Ridge ventured beyond the MVAC in Week 7 and secured a resounding 46-12 victory over Mathews, sending shockwaves through the opposition and their fans.

The Mineral Ridge offense showcased their versatility with a balanced attack that kept Mathews on their toes throughout the game. Quarterbacks Ian Erb and Landon Bingham combined for a solid performance, completing a total of 7 passes for 130 yards and 2 touchdowns.

Ethan Pemberton led the receiving corps with 3 receptions for 43 yards, including a spectacular touchdown catch that added to Mineral Ridge’s lead. Meanwhile, Brady Balestrino, David Baker, and Owen Sylak all contributed with crucial receptions to keep the chains moving.

On the ground, the Rams continued to impress. Ian Erb displayed his dual-threat abilities with 66 rushing yards and a well-deserved touchdown. Brady Balestrino, Preston Holbrook, Tanner Sharp, and Bryce Rohrman all made their mark in the rushing department, collectively amassing a formidable ground game that kept the Mathews defense guessing.

The Mineral Ridge defense was equally impressive, holding Mathews to a mere 12 points while forcing turnovers and providing crucial stops when needed.

With this resounding victory, Mineral Ridge demonstrated their potential and determination on both sides of the ball, leaving little doubt about their capabilities this season.

The Rams will look to carry this momentum into their next matchup as they prepare to travel to Springfield High School to face the Tigers next Saturday.

TOUGH NIGHT FOR SPARTANS AT HOME

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Photo Credit: Noelle Nunes

Conneaut, OH- In a disappointing matchup for the Conneaut Spartans, they faced off against the Geneva Eagles, resulting in a one-sided contest with a final score of Geneva Eagles 55 – Conneaut Spartans 0. It was a tough day for the Spartans as they struggled to find their footing against the dominant Geneva squad.

The first quarter saw Geneva’s Bryce Peet making a statement with two touchdown runs, showcasing his prowess near the goal line. Despite missing the extra point on the first touchdown, Geneva led 13-0 after the first quarter. The second quarter only intensified the Eagles’ dominance, as Luke Barbo and Luke Smith both found the end zone with multiple touchdowns, including a spectacular 69-yard punt return by Luke Smith. Quarterback Kenny Young connected with Gio Rice for another touchdown, further solidifying Geneva’s lead, which ballooned to 41-0 by halftime.

The onslaught continued into the third quarter, with Luke Smith adding another touchdown to his impressive performance. In the fourth quarter, Ricky DiPetta added a touchdown run to cap off a dominating performance by the Eagles.

For the Conneaut Spartans, this game served as a tough learning experience. With a final score of 55-0, they faced a formidable opponent in the Geneva Eagles. The Spartans will need to regroup and refocus as they prepare to take on the Edgewood Warriors in week 8.

On the other hand, the Geneva Eagles continue to soar, improving their record to 6-1, with a perfect 2-0 record in the CVC Lake Division. Their next challenge will be against the Lakeside Dragons in week 8, where they hope to maintain their winning streak and solidify their position at the top of the division.

LAKERS RUSH PAST SKIPPERS FOR FIRST NAC WIN

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Photo Credit: Kelly Summers

Fairport, OH- Building off of a dominating performance in week 6, the Pymatuning Valley Lakers sailed to victory against the Fairport Skippers with a final score of 40-0. The Lakers wasted no time making their presence known on the field, as they established their lead early in the first quarter.

The first quarter saw Ryan Croston bulldoze his way into the end zone with a powerful 10-yard touchdown run, followed by a successful 2-point conversion. Pymatuning Valley took an early 8-0 lead. The Lakers continued to flex their offensive muscles when Ty Vickery added another touchdown, this time from 5 yards out, and once again the 2-point conversion was successful. The first quarter ended with the Lakers comfortably ahead, 16-0.

The second quarter remained scoreless, as both defenses dug in to prevent any further advances on the scoreboard. However, the Lakers were far from finished.

In the third quarter, Ryan Croston showcased his speed and determination with a 20-yard touchdown run, accompanied by a 2-point conversion that extended the Lakers’ lead to 24-0. Ty Vickery wasn’t to be outdone and added yet another 5-yard touchdown run, with the conversion once again good, making the score 32-0 in favor of the Lakers.

The Lakers put the finishing touches on their impressive performance in the fourth quarter when Ty Vickery broke free for a spectacular 45-yard touchdown run. With the successful 2-point conversion, the final score stood at a resounding 40-0 in favor of Pymatuning Valley.

With this victory, the Pymatuning Valley Lakers improved their record to 4-3 overall and 1-0 in the NAC. Their next challenge awaits them at home in week 8, where they will face off against the Mathews Mustangs, who have a 1-6 record overall and also boast a 1-0 NAC record. The Lakers’ dominant rushing attack has been on full display for 2 straight weeks.

On the other side, the Fairport Skippers, now 2-5 overall and 1-1 in the NAC, will be gearing up for their week 8 matchup against the St. John Heralds, who hold a 3-4 overall record and a matching 1-1 NAC record.

HERALDS MORE EXPLOSIVE IN WIN OVER BOMBERS

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Windham, OH- In a game decided in the final 12 seconds, the St. John Heralds managed to edge out the Windham Bombers by a final score of 36-33. This game had everything a football fan could ask for: incredible plays, multiple lead changes, and a nail-biting finish.

The first quarter started with a bang as Windham’s Jack Eye scored a 22-yard touchdown, putting the Bombers on the board. With the extra point good, the Heralds found themselves trailing early, 7-0.

The second quarter saw Windham extend their lead when Anthony Paolella rushed for a 2-yard touchdown, though the extra point attempt was unsuccessful. The Heralds answered back with Will Anderson’s 11-yard touchdown run, but the two-point conversion fell short. Windham then added to their lead with Carlos Bruton’s 22-yard touchdown run, making it 19-6.

The third quarter brought hope for the Heralds as Anderson found the end zone again, this time with a 5-yard run. However, they couldn’t convert the two-point attempt. St. John’s Vin Narducci brought them within striking distance with a 2-yard touchdown and a successful two-point conversion, making the score 20-19 in favor of the Heralds.

The fourth quarter was a rollercoaster ride. Windham’s Jack Eye scored twice, once from 2 yards out and again from 5 yards, with one successful two-point conversion. However, the resilient Heralds came roaring back. Will Anderson connected with Anthony Severino for a stunning 60-yard touchdown pass, and they successfully converted a two-point attempt, closing the gap to 33-26.

The Heralds’ determination paid off when they recovered an onside kick, giving them a chance to take the lead. Will Anderson seized the opportunity with a 2-yard touchdown run, and another successful two-point conversion put St. John ahead, 36-33.

With the clock ticking down, the St. John Heralds held onto their lead and emerged victorious in this high-scoring showdown. Their record now stands at 3-4 (1-1 NAC), and they will look to build on this thrilling win as they prepare to face the rival Fairport Skippers in week 8.

The Windham Bombers, now at 2-5 (1-2 NAC), will regroup and get ready for their upcoming home game against the Chalker Wildcats in week 8. This game will surely be remembered as a classic NAC battle between two determined teams that left fans on both sides breathless with excitement.