Tag Archive for: MVAC

MCDONALD DIGS DEEP TO CRASH CLIPPERS

MCDONALD, OH- In a closely contested football matchup between the Columbiana Clippers and the McDonald Blue Devils, it was the McDonald Blue Devils who emerged victorious with a final score of 21-14. The game was filled with exciting plays and competitive action that kept fans on the edge of their seats.

The first quarter kicked off with a bang as the Columbiana Clippers wasted no time making their mark on the scoreboard. Liam Surgenevic of Columbiana broke free for an impressive 67-yard touchdown run, putting his team ahead 7-0. Aidan Radcliff successfully converted the PAT to extend their lead.

The second quarter saw a response from the McDonald Blue Devils. With just 40 seconds left on the clock, Drew Zajack of McDonald powered through for a 3-yard touchdown run, leveling the score at 7-7. James Hipple’s accurate PAT kick ensured that both teams remained even going into halftime.

As the action resumed in the third quarter, Columbiana was determined to regain their lead. With only 57 seconds remaining in the quarter, Parker Bush managed a 2-yard touchdown run, giving his team a 14-7 advantage over the McDonald Blue Devils. Aidan Radcliff once again successfully converted the extra point.

The fourth quarter proved to be the most intense and pivotal phase of the game. The McDonald Blue Devils staged an impressive comeback. With 9 minutes and 8 seconds left on the clock, Drew Zajack connected with Jordan Perry for a remarkable 68-yard touchdown pass, leveling the score once more at 14-14. James Hipple’s PAT was spot on.

With the clock winding down and the game hanging in the balance, McDonald’s Drew Zajack stepped up again, this time with a 1-yard touchdown run. With just 3 minutes and 16 seconds left in the game, McDonald surged ahead to a 21-14 lead after another successful PAT by James Hipple.

Despite the Columbiana Clippers’ efforts to mount a late-game comeback, the McDonald Blue Devils’ defense held firm, securing their 21-14 victory when the final whistle blew.

BLUE DEVILS WIN A THRILLER ON THE ROAD

Conneaut, OH- The game between the Conneaut Spartans and the Western Reserve Blue Devils was a thrilling back-and-forth battle that kept fans on the edge of their seats. The scoreboard reflected the intense competition, with both teams showcasing their offensive prowess and determination to secure victory.

In the second quarter, Conneaut’s Max Gleason kicked off the scoring with a 5-yard running touchdown, followed by a successful extra point, giving Conneaut an early 7-0 lead. However, Western Reserve’s Luke Henning quickly responded with a 6-yard running touchdown, leveling the score at 7-7 after the extra point.

As the clock ticked down in the second quarter, Max Gleason once again seized the spotlight with an impressive 71-yard run for another Conneaut touchdown. The extra point extended their lead to 14-7. Not to be outdone, Western Reserve’s Luke Henning connected with Ethan Cannon for a 23-yard pass, resulting in a touchdown and tying the game at 14-14 just before halftime.

The third quarter saw Max Gleason’s dominance continue, as he powered through for a 3-yard touchdown run, putting Conneaut ahead 21-14 after the successful extra point. However, Western Reserve’s Luke Henning refused to let his team fall behind, orchestrating a 2-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter to even the score at 21-21 following the extra point.

With the game hanging in the balance, Conneaut’s Bryce Spurlin stepped up and nailed a 40-yard field goal, giving Conneaut a narrow 24-21 advantage with 6:33 left in the fourth quarter. The tension remained high as Luke Henning led Western Reserve’s offense down the field, ultimately executing a 1-yard touchdown run with 3:26 left on the clock. The extra point pushed Western Reserve into the lead, 28-24.

Despite a valiant effort from the Conneaut Spartans, time ran out, and the Western Reserve Blue Devils emerged victorious with a final score of 28-24. The Conneaut Spartans, now 1-1, would face the Independance Blue Devils in an away game in week three, while the Western Reserve Blue Devils, also 1-1, would host the Columbiana Clippers. The game showcased the resilience and skill of both teams and left fans eagerly anticipating their upcoming matchups.

BLUE DEVILS TOO HOT TO HANDLE

MCDONALD, OH- The Southern Local Indians faced off against the McDonald Blue Devils in an intense football match that delivered excitement and drama until the very end. The game was a rollercoaster of emotions as both teams battled for dominance on the field in week one.

**1st Quarter:**
The game started with both teams struggling to break the deadlock, with the score remaining 0-0. However, Southern Local quickly shifted the momentum in their favor with a 3-yard rushing touchdown, followed by a successful 2-point conversion rush. This put Southern Local ahead 8-0. McDonald received the kickoff and managed to drive down the field, culminating in a 40-yard passing touchdown from Kyle Puckett to Casey Miller. Unfortunately for McDonald, the point-after attempt was missed, leaving the score at 8-6 in favor of Southern Local at the end of the first quarter.

**2nd Quarter:**
The second quarter witnessed back-and-forth action, with both teams displaying strong defensive efforts. McDonald’s Drew Zajack scored a 5-yard rushing touchdown, but the two-point conversion was unsuccessful. Southern Local responded with a 5-yard rushing touchdown of their own by Jamar Allen, but once again, the two-point conversion was not converted. The half ended with a score of 14-12 in favor of Southern Local.

**3rd Quarter:**
McDonald came out strong in the third quarter, with Drew Zajack finding the end zone once again on a 7-yard rushing touchdown. However, the two-point conversion attempt was once again unsuccessful. Southern Local answered with a 1-yard rushing touchdown, followed by a successful 2-point conversion rush, pushing their lead to 22-18 by the end of the third quarter.

**4th Quarter:**
As the game entered its final quarter, McDonald’s Kyle Puckett orchestrated a crucial 29-yard passing touchdown to Jordan Perry, putting them ahead 24-22. The point-after attempt was converted, extending McDonald’s lead to 25-22. In a dramatic turn of events, McDonald recovered a fumbled kickoff return by Southern Local. McDonald managed to maintain possession of the ball and run out the clock, securing their hard-fought victory with a final score of 25-22.

The game was a testament to the resilience and determination of both teams, as they battled through touchdowns, conversions, interceptions, and fumbles. Despite the ups and downs, the McDonald Blue Devils managed to emerge victorious in a thrilling contest against the Southern Local Indians, with a final score of 25-22.

PHOTO CREDIT: LOOKING AT LORI'S VIEW

NEWTON FALLS OUTLASTS EP

NEWTON FALLS, OH- The Newton Falls Tigers looked to open up their season with a victory on their own turf, and did just that to the tune of 48-34 over East Palestine on Friday Night.

The Tigers stormed out of the gates with a combined 42 points in the first half, while only giving up a pair of Bulldog scores and the mid-way point.  However, the Bulldogs would bounce back in the second act, outscoring the Tigers 22-6 to build momentum toward Week 2.

The Newton Falls Tigers started the game with a rush, as Kegan Howard scored a 6-yard rushing touchdown, taking an early lead of 6-0 in the first quarter. However, the point-after attempt was missed, leaving the score at 6-0.

East Palestine responded by receiving the kickoff but was unable to capitalize, resulting in a punt to Newton Falls. The Tigers quickly extended their lead with a 60-yard rushing touchdown by Carter Rapczak, putting them ahead 12-0 after a successful point-after attempt by Nick Lampman.

East Palestine managed to break through as RJ May returned a kickoff for a 90-yard touchdown, narrowing the gap to 14-6 after a missed extra point.

The first quarter ended with Newton Falls leading 14-6.

In the second quarter, the Tigers continued to control the game. Gage Phares rushed for a 6-yard touchdown, and Caden Short added a 13-yard rushing touchdown. The Tigers’ defense also recovered a fumble from East Palestine. With successful point-after attempts by Nick Lampman, Newton Falls extended their lead to 35-6 by halftime.

The third quarter saw East Palestine make an attempt at a comeback. Jesse Lipp rushed for a 5-yard touchdown, and Tanner Morrow rushed for a successful two-point conversion, bringing the Bulldogs’ score to 18. However, Newton Falls responded with a 1-yard rushing touchdown by Gage Phares, increasing their lead to 48-18.

East Palestine fought valiantly in the fourth quarter, with Zach Schnelle and RJ May each adding a rushing touchdown, along with successful two-point conversions. Despite their efforts, the final score remained 48-34 in favor of Newton Falls.

Kegan Howard finished 7/10 for 76 yards and a score under center, while posting 31 yards on the ground and adding another TD along the way.  Carter Rapczak led all rushers with 146 yards on 11 totes, and punched in for scores twice.  Caden Short ran for 35 yards, Gage Phares ran for 97 on 13 carries and found the endzone twice as well.  Jesse Chitwood made the most of his one reception by finding the endzone.

For East Palestine, Owen Jurjavcic went 7/12 through the air for 65 yards and a tuddy, while showing off the ground game as well with 13 carries for 67 yards.  The Bulldog rushing attack was paced by senior Jesse Lipp on 13 carries for 65 yards and a pair of scores.  Freshman RJ May had six carries for 40 yards on the ground and 3 receptions for 39 yards and a score while returning a kick for a touchdown as well.

 

WARRIORS RED HOT IN HOME OPENER

Ashtabula, OH- In a thrilling clash that had fans on the edge of their seats, the Liberty vs. Edgewood game showcased explosive plays, impressive touchdowns, and a resounding victory for Edgewood. From the very first snap to the final whistle, both teams fought valiantly, but it was Edgewood that emerged triumphant with a final score of 58-20.

The game kicked off with a bang as Chamir Franklin of Liberty ignited the excitement with a breathtaking 75-yard run touchdown. However, the extra point attempt fell short, setting the stage for an intense battle. Edgewood responded swiftly, with Tony Hall orchestrating a seamless 7-yard touchdown pass to Hunter Braat. Although the extra point was missed, the score was knotted at 6-6.

Edgewood continued to make its mark in the first quarter, this time with Anthony Hunt’s electrifying 25-yard touchdown run. A successful two-point conversion, with Tony Hall connecting with Jacob Ernst, extended Edgewood’s lead to 14-6 at the close of the first quarter.

As the second quarter commenced, Tony Hall demonstrated his versatility by not only throwing touchdown passes but also executing a 5-yard touchdown run. A successful two-point conversion involving Hall and Austin Zall further solidified Edgewood’s dominance, pushing the score to 22-6.

In the third quarter, Edgewood’s offense remained relentless. Tony Hall’s connection with Zeke Lucas resulted in a spectacular 25-yard touchdown pass. Despite the missed extra point, Edgewood’s lead expanded to 28-6. Another Hall-to-Zall connection, this time for 5 yards, added to Edgewood’s mounting advantage, with the score now at 34-6.

Liberty, determined to stage a comeback, fought back with an 8-yard pass from Tawann Tutwiler to Dwayne Moody, reducing the gap to 34-12. The team’s persistence paid off once again as Tutwiler found Julius Ferrell for a 14-yard touchdown pass. A successful two-point conversion narrowed the margin further, with the score standing at 34-20 at the end of the third quarter.

Edgewood’s momentum was unyielding in the final quarter. Seth Enos sprinted 27 yards for a touchdown, followed by a successful two-point conversion, bolstering the score to 42-20. Zeke Lucas then broke free for a 40-yard touchdown run, with another successful two-point conversion making it 50-20 in favor of Edgewood.

The final moments of the game were punctuated by Edgewood’s relentless spirit. A 15-yard interception return for a touchdown, masterfully caught by Seth Enos, was complemented by a successful two-point conversion run by Tony Hall, sealing the deal with a remarkable 58-20 victory.

Statistically, Tony Hall’s performance was nothing short of exceptional. Hall completed 14 out of 25 passes for 181 yards, throwing an impressive three touchdowns. Zeke Lucas demonstrated his prowess on the ground, amassing 112 yards on 14 carries and notching two touchdowns. Hunter Braat and Anthony Hunt added to Edgewood’s offensive showcase with crucial touchdown receptions.

With this dominant victory, Edgewood (1-0) heads into week 2 with their sights set on a matchup against Grand Valley (0-1). On the other side, Liberty (0-1) will seek to rebound as they face Girard (1-0) away in week 2. As the season unfolds, fans can expect more thrilling encounters and impressive displays of athleticism on the gridiron.

ROCKETS BLAST PAST CLIPPERS IN OVERTIME

COLUMBIANA, OH-In a breathtaking battle on the gridiron, the Lowellville Rockets clashed with the Columbiana Clippers in a game that had fans on the edge of their seats until the very end. The final score, 22-21 in overtime and in favor of Lowellville, epitomized the nail-biting nature of the contest.

The game kicked off with Columbiana’s Kian Hartley exhibiting his skills, as he dashed his way 6 yards into the endzone, followed by a successful PAT by Aidan Radcliff, giving Columbiana the early lead at 7-0 with just 1 minute and 16 seconds left in the first quarter. Hartley continued his dominance, adding a 5-yard touchdown run to his tally, and Radcliff’s accurate kick extended Columbiana’s lead to 14-0 at the 9:03 mark.

However, Lowellville was far from ready to concede. Michael Ballone orchestrated a remarkable drive, connecting with Matthew Lucido on a 4-yard touchdown pass, which Lucido followed with a successful PAT, narrowing the gap to 14-7 with 3 minutes and 54 seconds left in the second quarter. The Rockets’ determination only grew stronger as Ballone and Lucido combined forces once again, this time for a 27-yard touchdown pass, and Lucido’s successful PAT leveled the playing field at 14-14 with 4 minutes and 15 seconds remaining in the quarter.

The third quarter saw both teams continuing to deliver heart-pounding action. Columbiana’s Liam Surgenevic found his way into the endzone with a 20-yard touchdown run, complemented by Radcliff’s PAT, regaining the lead for Columbiana at 21-14. Lowellville, however, answered the call once more as Ballone exhibited his versatility, darting 20 yards for a crucial touchdown, and his subsequent pass to Lucido for the 2-point conversion tied the game at 21-21.

Overtime was nothing short of a drama-filled spectacle. Lowellville’s offense shone as Ballone threw a touchdown pass to Lucido, who secured his second touchdown catch of the day, followed by his second PAT. With a thrilling 22-21 victory, Lowellville emerged triumphant in a game for the ages. Matthew Lucido’s two touchdown catches, two PATs, and the decisive 2-point conversion stood as a testament to his pivotal role in the victory. Meanwhile, Michael Ballone’s two touchdown passes and a 20-yard rushing touchdown showcased his all-around prowess.

Columbiana’s Kian Hartley left his mark with two impressive touchdown runs and an interception, while Liam Surgenevic’s 20-yard touchdown run in overtime highlighted his significant contributions.

RANGE CLAIMS FIRST VICTORY ON TIGER TURF

NEW MIDDLETOWN, OH- On a night that the Springfield Tigers opened their brand new turf field, it was South Range who laid claim to it throughout the night.  The defending State Champions concluded opening week with a decisive score of 41-14 in favor of the Raiders.

Right from the outset, the Raiders showcased their offensive prowess. At the 7:17 mark, Tristan Toy connected with Brady Crumbacher on a 19-yard touchdown pass, quickly putting South Range on the scoreboard at 6-0. The two-point conversion attempt was successful, with Jimmy Powell finding Dylan Smesko, extending the Raiders’ lead to 8-0.

The Raiders continued their offensive surge with a 31-yard touchdown run by Tristan Toy, extending their lead to 14-0. The point-after attempt was converted by Luke Starkey, further solidifying South Range’s dominance at 15-0 with 2 minutes and 6 seconds remaining.

Early in the second quarter, Blake Ewert added to the Raiders’ lead with a 3-yard touchdown run, putting South Range ahead 21-0. Luke Starkey’s successful extra point made it 22-0 in favor of the Raiders.

South Range’s offensive onslaught continued as Aidan Dominguez powered through for a 1-yard touchdown run, expanding their lead to 28-0. Despite a missed two-point conversion attempt, the Raiders’ lead remained unchallenged.

The Springfield Tigers managed to respond before halftime, as Dante Gentile recorded a 5-yard touchdown run, putting the Tigers on the scoreboard at 28-7 following Kaysen Kosek’s successful extra point.

As the clock wound down in the first half, Blake Ewert found the end zone once again with a 7-yard touchdown run, further solidifying South Range’s dominance with a score of 35-7 as Luke Starkey’s point-after attempt was good.

Heading into the fourth quarter, the Raiders held a commanding 35-7 lead over the Tigers.

Aidan Dominguez continued to impress with a 24-yard touchdown run, extending South Range’s lead to 41-7. Although the extra point was blocked, the Raiders maintained a strong advantage.

Springfield managed to narrow the margin with a 3-yard touchdown run by Wyatt Kuboff, accompanied by Kaysen Kosek’s successful extra point, bringing the score to 41-14.

South Range will open up their renovated stadium next week against Green, while Springfield will jump on the bus and head to Brookfield.

VALLEY RISES PAST REBELS IN WEEK ONE

COLUMBIANA, OH- The Valley Christian Eagles clashed with the Crestview Rebels in an exciting game that saw a series of impactful scoring drives for three top area running backs.

Early in the game, the Eagles’ Ja’sean Lindsey showcased his agility and determination with a 3-yard touchdown run, giving Valley Christian an initial 6-0 lead with 8 minutes and 15 seconds remaining in the quarter.

Valley Christian’s Ike Lake continued the offensive onslaught, finding the end zone with a 3-yard touchdown run, pushing the Eagles’ advantage to 14-0. Lake’s impressive performance on the ground included 63 yards on 8 carries and 2 touchdowns, solidifying his impact on the game.

While Ja’sean Lindsey had a strong night running the ball, amassing two scores and 217 yards on 20 carries, the Eagles defense was equally formidable. Cadyn McElhaney intercepted a pass, showcasing the team’s splash play ability on both sides of the ball.

The Rebels fought back, as Jake Noling powered through the Eagles’ defense for a 1-yard touchdown run, narrowing the gap to 14-6. Noling proved to be a key player for the Rebels, accumulating seven carries for 45 yards and both of Crestview’s scores.

However, Valley Christian responded swiftly. Ja’sean Lindsey added another touchdown to his impressive performance, this time with a 1-yard run, extending the Eagles’ lead to 22-6 with 7 minutes and 39 seconds left in the game.

As the game entered the fourth quarter, Jake Noling dug deep, finding the end zone with a 2-yard touchdown run. While the Rebels drew nearer, their efforts weren’t enough to overcome the Eagles’ lead. The final score stood in favor of Valley Christian, as they secured the victory on opening night 30-12.

RAMS TRIUMPH IN THRILLING 4TH QUARTER SHOWDOWN

Mineral Ridge, OH- In a heart-pounding clash between two formidable high school football teams, the Mineral Ridge Rams emerged victorious against the Pymatuning Valley Lakers with a final score of 29-22. The game, which showcased intense back-and-forth action and spectacular plays, had fans on the edge of their seats from start to finish. The game kicked off with both teams displaying their offensive prowess. The Mineral Ridge Rams, led by quarterback Ian Erb, wasted no time in making their mark. With just over three minutes left in the first quarter, Erb executed a 1-yard touchdown run, followed by a successful PAT by kicker Landon Pal. The Rams took an early 7-0 lead, setting the tone for an exciting contest. The Pymatuning Valley Lakers were quick to respond, showcasing their resilience. Quarterback Ryan Croston orchestrated a 12-yard touchdown run with just 23 seconds left in the quarter. Running back Ty Vickery then added a two-point conversion, putting the Lakers ahead with a score of 8-7 at the end of the first quarter.  As the second quarter unfolded, the Lakers continued to showcase their offensive prowess. Ty Vickery, the standout running back for Pymatuning Valley, powered through the Rams’ defense for a 2-yard touchdown run. However, the subsequent two-point conversion attempt was unsuccessful, leaving the Lakers with a 14-7 lead. The Rams refused to be outdone. Ian Erb orchestrated an impressive drive down the field and connected with wide receiver Brady Balestrino for a remarkable 26-yard touchdown pass. Despite having the PAT blocked, the Rams closed the gap to a single point, with the Lakers leading 14-13. The third quarter showcased the Rams’ determination to regain control of the game. Ian Erb’s versatility was on full display as he executed a 1-yard touchdown run, followed by a successful 2-point conversion pass to none other than Brady Balestrino. The Rams surged ahead with a score of 21-14, setting the stage for a thrilling final quarter. As the tension mounted in the fourth quarter, both teams continued to fight tooth and nail for supremacy. Ryan Croston, the Lakers’ quarterback, demonstrated his passing skills by connecting with wide receiver Jaren Nowkowski for a 33-yard touchdown pass. Ty Vickery once again added a crucial two-point conversion, swinging the lead back to the Lakers at 22-21. However, the Rams were determined to have the final say. Quarterback Owen Shingledecker showcased his arm strength with a 37-yard touchdown pass to Brady Balestrino in the waning moments of the game. Shingledecker then completed a vital 2-point conversion pass to Ian Erb. With the scoreboard reading 29-22 in favor of the Rams, the stage was set for a dramatic finish. With mere seconds remaining on the clock, the Lakers desperately sought to tie the game. However, Rams’ defensive back Owen Shingledecker intercepted a pass from Ryan Croston as time expired. The Rams emerged victorious in a nail-biting contest, securing a hard-fought 29-22 win. The clash between the Mineral Ridge Rams and the Pymatuning Valley Lakers will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the most thrilling games of the season. With momentum shifts, explosive plays, and a game-deciding interception, both teams demonstrated their dedication and skill on the field. The Rams’ triumphant finish underscored their resilience and ability to rise to the occasion, leaving fans eager for their next electrifying matchup.

BLUE JAYS BLANK THE MUSTANGS

NORTH JACKSON, OH-The Mathews Mustangs faced off against the Jackson Milton Blue Jays in an intense game that saw a series of dynamic scoring drives. The first quarter showcased Jackson Milton’s offensive prowess, as Cayden Mitchell connected with Jonah French on a spectacular 37-yard touchdown pass at the 7:34 mark. The Blue Jays took an early lead, setting the tone for the game.

The second quarter continued to highlight Jackson Milton’s dominance. Cayden Mitchell remained in top form, launching a 41-yard touchdown pass to Joey Zayas just 11:48 into the quarter. Not content with just one impressive drive, the Blue Jays’ Jack McDevitt intercepted a pass, providing the perfect opportunity for Cayden Mitchell to strike again. Mitchell capitalized on the turnover, throwing a 22-yard touchdown pass to Jonah French.

The first half ended with a strong defensive play from Cayden Mitchell, who secured an interception just before halftime, adding to his multifaceted contribution to the game. The halftime score stood at 21-0 in favor of the Blue Jays.

Returning to the field in the second half, the Blue Jays continued their offensive onslaught. Aiden Stanke emerged as a force to be reckoned with, breaking through the Mustangs’ defense with a 15-yard touchdown run. The Blue Jays’ momentum only grew stronger, as Aiden Stanke duplicated his success with a 20-yard touchdown run just a few minutes later.

Despite the Mustangs’ efforts, the Blue Jays’ defense remained steadfast, thwarting any attempts at a comeback. The game ended with a decisive victory for Jackson Milton, shutting out Mathews with a final score of 27-0. Unfortunately, the game had to be called off due to inclement weather with only 1:30 left in regulation.

Jackson Milton moves to 1-0, while Mathews falls to 0-1 to start their campaign.