Tag Archive for: Overtime

THE RIGHT OF RICCIARDI

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BERLIN CENTER, OH- The Western Reserve Blue Devils are gearing up for one of their most anticipated games of the season, facing off against the formidable Springfield Tigers. On the latest episode of the YSN podcast, “The Devils Hour with Dom Ricciardi,” hosted by Chris Colucci, standout player Dom Ricciardi shared his thoughts and insights on the upcoming clash.

Ricciardi, who has been instrumental in the team’s success both as a running back and an outside linebacker, acknowledged the challenges faced in their previous game against Camel. Despite securing a victory, he admitted the team’s performance was somewhat marred by overconfidence and a lack of focus, attributing these issues to players looking ahead to the Springfield game.

“We had some guys just kind of ease down,” Ricciardi remarked, emphasizing the need to “put our foot on the gas” for the entire game. He underscored the importance of discipline, especially on defense, to cope with trick plays.

As the Blue Devils prepare to host the Tigers, Ricciardi highlighted the significance of the home advantage at Western Reserve High School. Noting the intimidation factor at Springfield’s venue, he expressed relief at playing on their own turf, which he believes will be a crucial element in the team’s performance.

Colucci pointed out the strength of the Blue Devils’ offense, particularly their “three-headed monster” backfield, featuring Ricciardi, Peter, and Darnie. Ricciardi praised the dynamic between the trio, emphasizing the mutual support and blocking efforts that bolster their running game.

With both teams eyeing the league title, Friday night’s game promises to be a spectacle of smash-mouth football. Ricciardi conveyed the team’s heightened focus and serious approach to practice this week, signifying their readiness for the high-stakes match.

Fans are encouraged to visit Ben’s restaurant, the loyal supporter of the YSN podcast, after the game. Ben’s will remain open late, providing a perfect spot for fans to gather and celebrate.

The stage is set for an intense showdown, and with Ricciardi and his teammates laser-focused, the Blue Devils are poised to give it their all in what could be the pinnacle match of their regular season.

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SARGE IS IN CHARGE

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LOWELLVILLE, OH- As the days of his high school football career swiftly come to an end, Lowellville Rockets’ dual offensive and defensive lineman, Sam Sargent, caught up with YSN Live host Eric Hughes at Bedford Trails. The senior has been a cornerstone of the Rockets’ lineup, contributing significantly to their back-to-back MBAC titles and mammoth playoff runs.

Reflecting on how fast his high school football journey has passed, Sam expressed a mix of emotions. “Every year it’s quicker and quicker,” said Sargent. “It’s sad knowing that’s the last chance I have to try to make a run in the playoffs and last time to play with my people, my grid.”

One of Sargent’s standout memories is his first varsity start against Columbiana last year, a game that ended in an exhilarating overtime finish. “That was my favorite moment,” he recounted with a smile.

He also highlighted the impact of his teammates, particularly underclassmen Ricky, who has stepped up to lead the line despite being just a sophomore. Sam’s preference for pass-blocking over run-blocking added a touch of personal insight into his role on the field. “Run blocking is tiring,” he admitted with a chuckle.

Off the field, Sargent is passionate about video games, with NCAA Football being his current favorite. He’s taken on the challenging task of building Kent State in the game’s dynasty mode.

Though he has ceased participating in other sports, a friendly rivalry in occasional pick-up basketball games with teammates like Nick Frable adds another dimension to his athletic life. “Nick is okay,” he joked, speaking affectionately about the teammate’s knack for making improbable shots.

As for his future, Sargent is planning to pursue a degree in exercise science at Youngstown State University, aspiring to keep his career within the sports realm. “I just want to stay in the line of sports, and it just caught my eye,” he explained.

Sargent’s journey through high school football has been shaped not only by his athletic skills but by the guidance and support of his coaches and teammates, and the encouragement of his older brother, who inspired his love for sports from an early age.

As Sam Sargent prepares to hang up his high school cleats, the Lowellville community eagerly anticipates his next steps, confident that his dedication and hard work will propel him to new heights.

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GO GO GONZO

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BERLIN CENTER, OH-  Thriving in their best season start since 2008, the Western Reserve Blue Devils are riding high with a 4-0 record. The team is set for a pivotal clash against Louisville this week, a match that holds more than just points in the standings. It’s a chance for redemption.

Noah Gonzalez, the Devil’s standout middle linebacker, appeared on the YSN Podcast’s latest episode to discuss his journey, the current season, and the upcoming showdown. “Last year, it was like 32-7, we had a lot of guys injured. But, you know, even for all of us, you know, me, Pater, Nate, it was a slap in the face, I’m not gonna lie,” Gonzalez admitted. “We still got that chip on our shoulder. So we’re coming into this league and making a statement. And that starts with Louisville.”

Gonzalez, who sports a tattoo honoring his Puerto Rican heritage, has been a force on the field alongside his equally talented teammate, Nate Hamburger. This dynamic linebacker duo has fans and foes alike taking notice. Describing a crucial third-down stop in a recent game, Gonzalez said, “Third down, big play. Dot sent me on a blitz… I got a sack.”

Reserve’s defensive prowess doesn’t end with its linebackers.  “I think we’re the best there is in this league with the defense,” Gonzalez declared. “Nate, all-Ohio at linebacker, 176 tackles… it doesn’t get any better than that.”

The team’s chemistry has roots in their early years, having played together since Peewee football. “We’ve kind of sucked in Peewee, I’m not gonna lie,” Gonzalez chuckled. “But, you know, junior high, we all. We’ve all been together. We all been there from the first day. You know, we just want to make our junior and our senior year something.”

Under the leadership of Coach Armeni, who has been pivotal in steering the team through rough patches, this year’s Wildcats are determined to leave a lasting legacy. Their recent overtime win against McDonald, where Gonzalez helped secure a nail-biting victory, epitomizes their resilience and unyielding spirit.

As the Devil’s prepare to face Louisville, fans can be assured; this team is more than ready to make a statement. With the energy and determination they’re bringing to the field, Gonzalez and his teammates are set to turn the tides in their favor, aiming for a season filled with victory and vindication.

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CANFIELD FOOTBALL COACH’S CORNER (EP 3) WITH JOE IGNAZIO

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CANFIELD, OH- The Canfield Cardinals soared to a thrilling victory this past Friday night, marking the first win of the Joe Ignazio era. The game, hailed as one of the most captivating of the season, showcased the tenacity and resilience of the Cardinals as they edged out their opponents in an overtime battle.

In his post-game reflection, Coach Ignazio praised his team for their standout performance and determination. “Our kids played their butt off and it was good to have one to build their confidence,” Ignazio said. The Canfield Cardinals showed significant improvement, adhering to the coach’s philosophy that the best teams grow leaps and bounds from week one to week two.

Special teams proved crucial, as the coach emphasized the importance of every phase of the game. “Young kids tend to think special teams are a playoff, and they’re absolutely not,” Ignazio remarked. The team almost faced a costly lesson, but their perseverance through two critical plays helped secure the victory.

Players like Angelo DeLucia and Enzo Coca stood out, both leaving indelible marks on the stat sheet. DeLucia, a defensive powerhouse, racked up multiple tackles and pressures on the quarterback, while Coca demonstrated versatility with significant contributions both offensively and defensively. His interception and blocked field goal in regulation were pivotal moments that propelled the Cardinals to overtime triumph.

Coach Ignazio’s leadership and ability to cultivate a competitive environment were evident throughout the game. Reflecting on the physicality and competitive nature ingrained in the team, Ignazio attributed it to his upbringing and the enduring tradition of Canfield athletics. “We’ve talked to our team about consistency,” he said, highlighting the repetitive practice and relentless work ethic that are key to building confidence.

As the Cardinals prepare for their next challenge against Homestead Falls, Coach Ignazio remains focused on fostering growth and maintaining high standards. “When we got back to the locker room, they presented me with the game ball, and that was special. But I told them right away, put that thing in the trash because it really is not about me,” Ignazio stated, underscoring his team-first mentality.

The victory serves as a significant springboard for the remainder of the season, with the team eager to continue their journey under Coach Ignazio’s guidance. As the Canfield Cardinals take to the field once more, the community’s support and the team’s dedication promise an exciting chapter ahead.

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WARRIORS WIN DOUBLE OT THRILLER AT HOME

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East Ashtabula, OH-

In another nail-biting contest that required not one but two overtimes to determine the victor, the Edgewood Warriors emerged triumphant against the Jefferson Falcons with a final score of 77-72. The game was a showcase of incredible skill and determination from both teams, with standout performances from key players keeping fans on the edge of their seats.

Quarter-wise Breakdown:

QUARTER SCORES 1 2 3 4 OT1 OT2 TOTAL
Edgewood Warriors 17 14 13 11 7 15 77
Jefferson Falcons 12 13 16 14 7 10 72

Top Performers:

Edgewood Warriors:

  1. Jacob Ernst: The standout player for the Warriors, Jacob Ernst, dominated the court with an impressive 33 points, including a remarkable 9 points in overtime.
  2. Logan Kray: Contributing significantly to the team’s success, Logan Kray showcased his skills with a notable 30 points, including 10 crucial points in overtime, including a remarkable 4-point play.
  3. Brady Andrejack: Chipping in with 6 points.
  4. Russell Thomas: Adding 4 points to the Warriors’ total.
  5. Mason Thorr and Zach Carlton Hull: Both players contributed 2 points each.

Jefferson Falcons:

  1. Anthony Covetta: The leading scorer for the Falcons, Anthony Covetta, displayed an outstanding performance, finishing the game with an impressive 34 points, including four 3-pointers, three of which came in overtime.
  2. Joey DeGeorge: Contributed 12 points to the team’s total.
  3. Dylan Beebe: Added 11 points to the Falcons’ score.
  4. Robbie Pisano and Joel Navarro: Both players scored 6 points each.
  5. Terry Brown: Rounded up the scoring with 3 points.

Game Summary:

The Edgewood Warriors faced their second overtime challenge of the season, with Jacob Ernst and Logan Kray leading the charge. Ernst’s 34-point performance, with a stellar 9 points in overtime, and Kray’s 30 points, including a clutch 4-point play, secured the hard-fought victory.

On the opposing side, Anthony Covetta’s incredible 34-point game, featuring crucial 3-pointers in overtime, kept the Jefferson Falcons in contention until the final buzzer.

Upcoming Matches:

The Edgewood Warriors (8-2) will return to their home court on January 12, 2024, to face the Madison Blue Streaks (8-3). Meanwhile, the Jefferson Falcons (4-4) will host the Harvey Red Raiders (6-5) in their next game. The Red Raiders are entering the matchup following a 74-50 loss to the Perry Pirates. Basketball enthusiasts can expect another thrilling clash as these teams vie for supremacy on the court.

WARRIORS FALL IN TRIPLE OT THRILLER

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East Ashtabula- In a riveting clash that will undoubtedly go down in the annals of high school basketball lore, the Edgewood Warriors faced off against the Geneva Eagles in a triple-overtime extravaganza that left fans breathless. The final score of 70-68 in favor of the Geneva Eagles only tells part of the story, as the game unfolded as a gripping narrative of skill, determination, and resilience.

First Three Quarters: A Tightly Contested Affair:

From the opening tip-off, it was clear that both teams came prepared for a battle. The first quarter ended with a deadlock at 10-10, setting the stage for a contest where every possession mattered. The following quarters were no less intense, with each team showcasing their offensive prowess and defensive tenacity.

Overtime Drama: Logan Kray vs. Luke Smith, Round by Round:

As regulation time came to a close with a tied score of 62-62, the game ventured into overtime, signaling the start of a showdown between two standout players. Edgewood’s Logan Kray and Geneva’s Luke Smith took center stage, trading baskets in a mesmerizing display of skill.

Kray, finishing the game with an impressive 24 points, and Smith, leading all scorers with a remarkable 25 points, engaged in a back-and-forth battle that transcended ordinary competition. Their ability to hit clutch shots and keep their teams in the game became the defining narrative of the evening.

The drama unfolded not just in one overtime but stretched into three, with Kray and Smith refusing to let their teams succumb to fatigue or pressure. The gymnasium echoed with cheers and gasps as each possession unfolded, and the two stars traded blows like heavyweight boxers refusing to go down.

Foul Trouble and Player Exodus: The Battle Within the Battle:

The sheer intensity of the contest took its toll on both teams, manifesting in foul trouble that added another layer of complexity to the game. Edgewood’s Jacob Ernst, Mason Thorr, and Brady Andrejack all fouled out in the first overtime, leaving the Warriors shorthanded. Geneva faced similar challenges, with Andrew Oros and Haiden Diemer exiting the game due to fouls during overtime play.

As the benches were tested, and substitutes became unsung heroes, the fate of the game hung in the balance. The final moments of each overtime period became a strategic chess match, with coaches and players making crucial decisions under immense pressure.

Point Totals Tell a Tale of Individual Brilliance:

Edgewood Warriors:

  • Zach Carlton Hull: 10 points
  • Jacob Ernst: 19 points
  • Logan Kray: 24 points
  • Mason Thorr: 15 points

Geneva Eagles:

  • Caden Proy: 7 points
  • Haiden Diemer: 10 points
  • Luke Barbo: 14 points
  • Andrew Oros: 3 points
  • Donny Shymske: 2 points
  • Luke Smith: 25 points
  • Bryce Peet: 9 points

Looking Ahead: Redemption and Challenges Await:

As the final buzzer sounded, signaling the end of a game that will be remembered for years to come, the Edgewood Warriors walked away with a mix of disappointment and pride. Their resilience in the face of adversity hinted at a promising season ahead.

The Warriors (3-1) now turn their attention to a home matchup against  their bitter rival the Lakeside Dragons (2-2) on December 20, 2023, where they aim to bounce back and continue their journey. Meanwhile, the Geneva Eagles (3-2) savor the sweet taste of victory as they brace themselves for a formidable challenge against the undefeated Crestwood Red Devils (5-0) at home on December 18, 2023.

For those fortunate enough to witness this triple-overtime saga, the memories created on the court will endure, a testament to the unpredictable and captivating nature of high school basketball.