A look back at who did what in Week 10 of the regional high school football season. Compiled by Gary Rogo and the Hearst Connecticut Sports Staff.
BULLDOZERS
Arkeel Newsome, Ansonia: Junior returned to greatness after being slowed by an ankle injury, rushing for 222 yards and four touchdowns in a 56-26 demolition of Woodland in the NVL championship game.
Alex Lockwood, Barlow: Ran for 175 yards and two TDs on 18 carries in a 29-22 victory over Brookfield.
Kyle Jordan and Trevon Forney, McMahon: Jordan ran for 281 yards and 4 TDs and Foreny added 138 yards and 2 TDs in 47-26 defeat of Stamford.
Dylan McAllister, Pomperaug: Rushed for 146 yards and scored TD runs of 30 and 16 yards in a 18-6 victory over New Fairfield.
GUNSLINGERS
Brennen Diaz, Oxford: 15-for-23 with 164 yards and three TDs as the Wolverines improved to 7-2 with a 35-12 defeat of Bunnell.
Nick Cascione and Teddy Bossidy, New Canaan: Very effective QB tandem in 49-7 rout of Trumbull that clinched Class L playoff berth. Cascione was 6 of 10 for 120 yards and 1 TD pass and rushed for 77 yards and 2 scores. Bossidy was 5 of 7 for 112 yards and 1 TD pass while rushing for 21 more yards.
Henry Baldwin, Darien: Threw 3 TD passes – two to Peter Geusaldi (14, 52 yards) – in 48-20 romp over Bassick.
Matt White, Ludlowe: Ran for a game-tying 64-yard TD, then passed 8 yards to Steve Zadravec for an overtime TD in a 21-20 victory over Norwalk, the Falcons’ third straight victory.
GAMEBREAKERS
Chris Vankamerik, Oxford: Caught 8 passes for 99 yards and two TDs to help take down Bunnell.
Tim Maher, Law: QB ran for 126 yards and two TDs on seven carries and added 101 yards and two TD throws on 4-of-5 passing in a 60-27 rout of Plainfield.
Jake Pelletier, St. Joseph: Ran for a 1-yard TD, caught a 15-yard pass from Jordan Vazzano for a second score, threw a 52-yard TD to Denzel Moscova on a razzle-dazzle play and kicked 7 PATs as the Cadets put themselves in position to clinch a Class M playoff berth with a 49-14 rout of Trinity Catholic.
Austin Longi, Greenwich: Returned an interception 47 yards for a TD and returned a punt 30 yards for a second score as the Cardinals ripped Danbury 54-8, in the process securing berths in the state playoffs and the FCIAC title game.
BRICK WALLS
Kyle Chudoba, Oxford: Two interceptions against Bunnell, including one he returned 20 yards for a TD.
Brad Swain, Masuk: Senior LB set the tone on the Panthers’ first series on defense, tackling a Weston ballcarrier for a 2-yard loss and on the next play hauling down the QB to force a fumble which Masuk recovered
A look at who did and said what during Week 6 of the southwestern Connecticut high school football season. Compiled by executive editor Gary Rogo and the Hearst Connecticut sports staff.
arlow quarterback Jack Shaban escapes the sack from Bunnell’s Kevin Hernandez Friday.
BULLDOZERS
Jack Shaban, Barlow: Junior quarterback ran for 135 yards with a touchdown and also threw for a score in the 6-0 Falcons’ 28-14 win over Bunnell.
Joe Pacheco, New Fairfield: Ran for 238 yards and four touchdowns in a 35-21 win over Weston.
Joe Piatnik, Bethel: Ran for four touchdowns (and passed for another) to lead Bethel past Stratford 49-32.
Jim Vartelas, Seymour: Ran for 108 yards and two touchdowns and also caught a touchdown in a win over Crosby.
Vochan Fowler, Bassick: Ran for two touchdown, including the game-winner in the fourth to give Bassick its first win of the season in a 14-6 result against Harding.
Chris Golger, Fairfield Prep: Ran 50 yards for the winning TD in the fourth quarter as the Jesuits survived Hamden 27-20. Golger also scored on a 7-yard pass from Strecker Backe.
Arkeel Newsome, Ansonia: Returned from injury to run for 162 yards and 2 TDs on 10 carries in 49-21 victory over Watertown.
Davell Cotterell, Westhill: Ran for 236 yards and two touchdowns on 36 carries in a 24-20 victory over Danbury.
GUNSLINGERS
Jake Kasuba, Foran: Threw for 298 yards on 20-for-28 passing, with two touchdowns in the Lions 50-35 win over ND-West Haven. He also ran for 65 yards.
Liam O’Neil, Greenwich: Completed 14 of 15 passes for 261 yards and a career-high five touchdowns — all in the first half — in Greenwich’s 56-6 rout of Bridgeport Central. Even more impressive was the fact that he compiled these statistics in the first half, as he did not throw a pass in the second half.
Mark Piccirillo, Shelton: Completed 8 of 12 passes for 158 yards and two TDs (35 and 12 yards to Kyle Drost) in a 42-2 rout of Lyman Hall.
GAMEBREAKERS
Kyle Jordan, McMahon: Ran for two touchdowns and caught an 86-yard score in a 27-7 win over Fairfield Ludlowe.
Will Bonaparte, Ridgefield: Ran for 126 yards with two touchdowns and caught a 52-yard touchdown pass from Connor Rowe in the Tigers’ win over Norwalk.
Nick Weissauer, Foran: Caught nine passes for 111 yards and a touchdown in a win over ND-West Haven.
Jack Massie, Staples: Junior quarterback completed 10-of-13 passes for 160 yards and two touchdowns in a 57-14 win over Trumbull. He also rushed for 142 yards, with touchdown runs of 76 and 53 yards. Teammate James Frusciante,a senior wide receiver, had five catches for 89 yards and two touchdowns in first half.
Thomas Milone, Masuk: Do-everything Panther was a handful for Brookfield, scoring TDs on runs of 20 and 59 yards to put the finishing touches on a 42-14. victory.
Marcus Esteves, Oxford: Scored all of Oxford’s touchdowns — three rushing, an interception return — in the Wolverines’ 27-0 win over New Milford.
New Canaan's Casey Ouellette drags down St. Joseph's Shane Miller in the Rams' 27-21 victory.
Andrew Matos, Ansonia: Caught TD passes of 5 and 48 yards from Jai’Quan McKnight and threw a 72-yard score to Rashaun Finney in a 49-21 rout of Watertown.
BRICK WALLS
Brian Wigand, Darien: Returned an interception 42 yards for a touchdown in the Blue Wave’s win over Wilton.
Matt Montani, Fairfield Prep: Made a fourth-quarter interception to seal Prep’s 27-20 win over Hamden.
Cole Harris, New Canaan: Returned an interception 57 yards for a TD to rally the Rams over St. Joseph 27-21. New Canaan had trailed 21-12 at halftime.
VALIANT IN DEFEAT
Devante Teel, Bunnell: Caught touchdowns of 83 and 53 yards in a loss to Barlow.
Marc Cesare, Trumbull: Junior returned a kick 90 yards for a touchdown in 57-14 loss to Staples.
Jake Pelletier, St. Joseph: Caught six passes for 136 yards vs. New Canaan.
“The guy actually has no class whatsoever. The guy was 100 percent wrong and he knows he’s wrong. The way I took it, I think he was saying [explicative] to the CIAC.”
–Stamford coach Bryan Hocter on NFA coach Jemal Davis after a 51-0 loss that broke the CIAC’s score management policy.
Staples quarterback Jack Massie (center) celebrates at TD with Joey Zelkowitz and James Frusciante during their 57-14 win over Trumbull.
“I honestly don’t know. That’s for them to figure out.”
–Staples quarterback Jack Massie, responding to the question, ‘How do you top Staples’ offense?’ following a 57-14 win over Trumbull.
“Relieved is how I am, we came close to losing this. For some reason we didn’t give them the respect they deserve and we almost paid the ultimate price for it.”
-Fairfield Prep coach Tom Shea, on his team’s 27-20 win over Hamden
“This was about a bunch of kids from the city’s West Side who don’t get a chance to succeed in much, getting to get a win.”
–Bassick coach Derrick Lewis on his team’s 14-6 win over Harding, the Lions’ first win of the season.
“The team had faith in me to try it again. Ryan just threw it up and I knew I could get it. (Cory Chaffee) is a great player but I just came up with it.”
–Westhill’s Yveson Cassamajor, on the 33-yard pass from Ryan Coppola that set up the winning touchdown in Westhill’s 24-20 comeback win over Danbury.
“It’s been a difficult year in that we’re so young and dumb at times. … It just does my heart so good to see this young team getting better every week.”
–New Canaan coach Lou Marinelli on his team’s 27-21 win over St. Joseph
“I’m not quite sure what was going on out there, but we definitely gave one away.”
–St. Joseph coach Joe Della Vecchia
“It’s an art form, maybe a dying art form in football, but an art form when you run it properly.”
–Barlow coach Rob Tynan on his team’s option offense, which has the Falcons 6-0 for the first time since 1974.
“This is a difficult time for us, but we’ll continue to fight to the finish like we always do.”
–Bunnell coach Craig Bruno on his team’s 5-game losing streak.
“He’s a special talent and I’m lucky to have him on my side.”
–New Fairfield coach Anthony Fata on standout tailback Joe Pacheco
“I’m just trying to enjoy every moment with Tyler. He’s a special, special player.”
-Weston coach Joe Lato on QB Tyler Hassett, who played with a nagging injury throughout the Trojans’ 42-21 loss to New Fairfield
“These kids were tired of losing the past three seasons. They want to play football. And they all want to win. This season has been a very great thing.”
–Trinity Catholic coach Peter Stokes on his team’s 6-0 start
FCIAC
Staples (5-0) at Darien (4-2), Saturday, 1:30: Staples continues to use the rest of the FCIAC as sparring partners in preparation for the bigger prize at the end of the season. Will Darien, whose playoff hopes are already on life support, put up any kind of resistance? The good news is Peter Gesualdi is back. The bad news is, Staples has a full head of steam barreling into this matchup.
Greenwich (5-0) at Westhill (4-2), Saturday, 1:30: Westhill’s having a dream season. Davell Cotterell and the Vikings keep finding ways to win and are inching closer to their first winning season in decades. But just how far is the gap between them and the FCIAC’s upper echelon? Lace up. Time to find out.
SWC
Oxford's Marcus Esteves scored four touchdowns in the 4-2 Wolverines' 27-0 win over New Milford. Photo by Michael Duffy
New Fairfield (4-2) at Oxford (4-2), Saturday, noon: Ace back Joe Pacheco and the Rebels are honing in on a fabulous season. They’d love to keep it going in this tough, competitive road game vs. Brennen Diaz and the Wolverines. It’s of minor significance on the state stage, with the winner moderately improving their faint chances. Still, this should be good.
Stratford (2-4) at Weston (5-1), Saturday, 1: It’s Weston’s homecoming, but the Trojans are limping back from their first loss of the season. With Masuk and Barlow still left on the schedule, their Class M playoff hopes depend on this game. Worse, the availability of star quarterback Tyler Hassett is in question after a groin injury suffered vs. New Fairfield. Stratford’s looking for a signature win to propel itself forward. Now’s the time.
SCC
Cheshire (4-2) at West Haven (5-1), Friday, 7 – West Haven’s up against it following its thrilling, but heartbreaking 21-20 loss to No. 1 Hand. With Xavier and Fairfield Prep looming, the Westies can ill afford any more losses in a tight Class LL race. But you knew that.
Fairfield Prep (5-1) at Amity (2-4), Friday, 7 – Fairfield Prep got some needed experience playing a close game. They’d be better off taking care of Amity quickly, resting up and continuing their drive for a Thanksgiving showdown.
Xavier (5-1) at Hillhouse (5-1), Friday, 3 — There’s a reason Hillhouse played Guilford without Harold Cooper: The banged-up standout back needs to be ready to take on the once-jilted, two-time defending Class LL champs. Yes, we all know how close ‘House came two years ago at Bowen…
Hand (6-0) at North Haven (4-2), Friday, 7 –North Haven’s Class L playoff hopes will live/die here. We say die. Valiant effort this year, Indians. (Maybe?)
CSC
Platt Tech (4-1) at Bullard-Havens (5-1), Saturday, noon – Both schools were handed their their first losses of the season and now sit a game behind the teams that beat them: Capital Prep and Prince Tech. The winner of this vastly important rivalry game will have a good grasp on third or second place. Also some state considerations here. Bullard-Havens in M, Platt Tech in Class L…
We are at the midpoint of the 2012 high school football season. Here’s a look at who did an said what during Week 5 in southwestern Connecticut. Compiled by executive sports editor Gary Rogo and the Hearst Connecticut sports staff.
Bulldozers
Trinity Catholic's Randy Polonia (left) after scoring one of his five touchdowns vs. Stamford.
Mike Burns, Wilton: Scored two touchdowns and rushed for 81 yards on 13 carries in the Warriors’ 35-21 defeat of McMahon.
Randy Polonia, Shaquan Howsie and Sean Brown, Trinity Catholic: Combined for 345 yards rushing in a 41-20 victory over Stamford that earned the Crusaders the city championship. Polonia scored the team’s final five touchdowns and finished with 116 yards on 13 carries.
Joey Zelkowitz, Staples: Senior running back rushed for 124 yards in first half and added a 3-yard touchdown run in third quarter of Staples’ 51-6 rout of Danbury.
Nick Kelly, Staples: Ran for 97 yards in first half and scored on 56-yard run in win over Danbury.
Ryan Pearson, Trumbull: Scored on TD runs of 1, 20 and 21 yards in Eagles’ 39-26 upset of Darien.
Niko DeRosa, Foran: Ran for 195 yards and two TDs to pace the Lions’ 338-yard rushing effort in a 51-12 rout of Lyman Hall.
Andrew Louis, Central: Bruising fullback carried 22 times for 129 yards and two scores as Hilltoppers outlasted Bassick 38-24.
Saiheed Sanders, Ansonia: Rushed for 100 yards and three TDs as the Chargers blanked Seymour 47-0 despite playing without star back Arkeel Newsome.
John Shannon, Jacqua Solomon: Bullard-Havens: Each scored 3 TDs in 46-10 rout of Wilcox Tech. Shannon (11 carries, 115 yards) scored on runs of 46, 3 and 9 yards. Solomon (10 rushes, 125 yards) scored on runs of 63 and 21 yards and caught a 49-yard TD from Equan Brooks.
Alex Lockwood, Barlow: Scored four first-half TDs (runs of 24, 9 and 55 yards and a 59-yard pass from Jack Shaban) as the Falcons ripped Immaculate 56-0. Gained 118 yards on just 5 carries in the first half.
Gunslingers
Jordan Vazzano, St. Joseph: Sophomore threw four TD passes, including two to Jake Pelletier, as the Cadets romped past Harding 42-6.
Mark Piccirillo, Shelton: Completed 12 of 15 passes for 205 yards and two TDs (31 and 30 yards to Ed Cochiss) in the Gaels’ 34-8 victory over ND-West Haven.
Gamebreakers
Bethel's Joey Piatnik during his monster night vs. New Milford
Joe Piatnik, Bethel: Ran for a 3-yard TD in overtime and threw the winning 2-point conversion pass as the Wildcats edged New Milford 34-33. Finished with 48 carries for 242 yards and two touchdowns, also completed 14 of 19 passes for 160 yards and three touchdowns.
Thomas Milone, Masuk: Scored six TDs — runs of 59, 1, 2, 70 and 43 yard and a pass reception of 75 yards from Malik Cummings — as the Panthers pulled away from New Fairfield 54-19.
Austin Longi, Greenwich: Sophomore returned a punt 99 yards for a touchdown in Greenwich’s 40-14 win over Ludlowe.
Tyler Hassett, Weston: Senior quarterback passed for 233 yards, rushed for 83 yards and accounted for three touchdowns in 27-20 overtime win over Bunnell.
Dan Hebert, Cooper Gold, Newtown: Each ran for two TDs and caught a pass from Andrew Tarantino for a third score in 47-21 victory over Oxford as Nighthawks went to 5-0.
Tim Maher, Law: Ran for 128 yards and three TDs and threw for a fourth score in a 40-0 rout of East Haven.
Zack White, Foran: Scored on a 70-yard punt return and a 81-yard kickoff return.
Dillon McMahon, Derby: Threw for a TD, ran 18 yards for a second score and returned a kickoff 45 yards for a third as the Red Raiders ripped Watertown 47-19.
Andrew Matos, Ansonia: Set the tone early against Seymour with 85-yard punt return for a TD and accumulated 76 yards rushing on just three carries.
Noah Provo, Stratford: Returned a kickoff 75 yards for a TD and caught a 65-yard score from Mike Cannata in a 20-13 win over Pomperaug.
Brick Walls
Mitchell D’Eramo, Fairfield Prep: Linebacker recovered two fumbles in the Jesuits’ 39-6 win over Cheshire. Jesuits defense forced three turnovers.
Lance Lonergan, Staples: Senior linebacker returned an interception 75 yards for a touchdown in 51-6 win over Danbury on Friday.
Ryan Moran, St. Joseph: had a pair of sacks to lead Cadets in 42-6 rout of Harding.
Valiant in Defeat
Kyle Jordan, McMahon: Rushed for 142 yards and a touchdown on 19 carries in the Senators’ 35-21 loss to Wilton.
Corey Chaffee, Danbury: Senior wide receiver/cornerback had a 60-yard touchdown catch and intercepted a pass in a 51-6 loss to Staples.
Vochan Fowler, Bassick: Junior QB threw an 88-yard TD pass to Tyreik Gilbert and ran 9 yards for a second score in a 38-24 loss to Central.
Brennan Diaz, Oxford: Threw 3 TD passes in first half to help Wolverines to a 21-12 lead. Newtown rallied to win 47-21.
“These kids, they just don’t give in.”
Oxford quarterback Brennan Diaz threw three TDs but Oxford eventually succumbed to Newtown 47-21
–Weston coach Joe Lato after his team rallied from 20-7 down to defeat Bunnell 27-20 in overtime.
‘We came here to play football. So I have no problem with that at all. And I don’t think Rob will have any problem, and if he does, I will step up and defend him.’
–Immaculate coach Tom Taylor on Barlow’s violation of the CIAC’s score management policy.
“It’s a tough situation, as a coach. But I’m not going to tell a kid to miss an extra point or something.’
–Barlow coach Rob Tynan, who was eventually absolved for defeating Immaculate 56-0
‘They call this the Black Hole. But tonight it was the Surf Club.’
–Hand fullback/linebacker Matt Walsh on the Tigers’ 40-20 win over Xavier.
“They were upset we stuck the ball in the end zone, I guess. Twenty-one point, 18-point game, whatever it would have been, just trying to win the game, you know?”
–Newtown coach Steve George after Oxford coaches took exception to his team’s last-minute of touchdown pass a 47-21 Hawks’ victory
“There’s a lot of emotion in football, it’s how it is.”
–Oxford quarterback Brennan Diaz on the brouhaha following Newtown’s 47-21 victory over the Wolverines.
“It felt great to be back under center after missing so much time.”
–Greenwich quarterback Liam O’Neil after leading the Cardinals to a 40-14 victory over Ludlowe, his first game back from a finger injury.
“We played our hearts out. We just wanted this so bad.”
–Fairfield prep back Chris Golger on the Jesuits’ 39-6 victory over Cheshire.
Trumbull's Ryan Pearson vs. Darien
“He was fantastic. He made money yards.”
–Trumbull coach Bob Maffei on back Ryan Pearson, who shredded Darien with three touchdowns in the Eagles’ 39-26 upset.
“We’ve worked all summer. It was just great to have it all pay off. … I’m speechless. This is amazing.”
–Bethel quarterback Joey Piatnik on his winning 2-point conversion pass to Cal Daniels in a 34-33 overtime victory over New Milford.
“That is no excuse, I’m sick of people saying that.”
–New Milford coach Chuck Lynch on the idea that his team’s tough schedule has contributed to the Wave’s 0-5 start.
“We’re better for him having not played this week.”
–Ansonia coach Tom Brockett on keeping back Arkeel Newsome on the sidelines during the Chargers’ 47-0 win over Seymour.
“I never thought in my 20 years of coaching that I’d be unhappy leading 30-6.”
–Staples coach Marce Petroccio on his team’s penalties and turnovers in the first half vs. Danbury.
Tweets of Week 5 (2012)
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SCC
West Haven (5-0) at Hand (5-0) – Hand earns its biggest victory of the season, knocking off reigning No. 1 and two-time defending Class LL champion Xavier, which just happened be on a 30-game win streak. Just a few days later, Ervin Phillips and West Haven come to town. Just ain’t no rest in the SCC. None. In case you were wondering, this is why No. 1 teams usually come out of this league, kids.
FCIAC
Trumbull (2-3) at Staples (4-0), Friday, 7 — Hello Trumbull. Whatcha knowin’? It’s nice to see your helmets glowin’… (Ask coach to sing it for you.)
New Canaan (4-1) at St. Joseph (4-1), Saturday, 2:30 — OK, New Canaan, time to play another big game again. Time to prove you haven’t gone anywhere. This is how you erase the pain of that Trinity Catholic loss. But you knew that much.
NVL
Derby (4-1) at Wolcott (5-0), Friday, 7 — Derby isn’t just on pace for its first winning season in 16 years, it’s inexorably lining up to qualify for the Class S playoffs. Yeah, we know! That hasn’t happened since the unbeaten season of 1990! The Red Raiders must this one against QB Mike Nichol and the Eagles to really grab hold of a special season.
SWC
Barlow (5-0) at Bunnell (1-4), Friday, 7 — Nothing’s gone Bunnell’s way this season. Not a thing. But they’re still scary. They’re still dangerous. Barlow wants to go to the state playoffs for the first time in school history. Every game’s huge from here. And this one’s not easy.
Masuk (5-0) at Brookfield (4-1), Friday, 7 — Though we’re skeptical after watching Brookfield melt in a 35-7 loss to Newtown and because of how Masuk is steamrolling all comers, this game still has potential. The Bobcats are in the thick of the Class M playoff race and are looking for a benchmark victory. Masuk loves to prove it owns the SWC.
Weston (5-0) at New Fairfield (3-2), Friday, 7 — The Rebels got a dose of reality in their 54-19 loss to Masuk. But they remain one of the SWC’s better teams. Joe Pacheco is still a tough back to bring down. Hanging on by their chinstraps sometimes, Tyler Hassett and Weston have found incredible ways to win. They are now a part of the Class M playoff hunt. Is this where the Trojan magic ends?
We’re just about at the halfway point of the season. Here’s a quick look back at who did and said what in Week 4. Compiled by Executive Sports Editor Gary Rogo and the Hearst Connecticut sports staff.
Newtown's Dan Hebert catches a touchdown pass from Drew Tarantino in the Hawks' 35-7 victory over Brookfield. Photo: Jason Rearick
BULLDOZERS
Frank Bacarella, Masuk: Senior ran 14 times for 133 yards with three scores in a 63-14 rout of Bunnell.
Chris Golger, Fairfield Prep: Senior rumbled for 122 yards on nine carries with a pair of touchdowns in a 42-3 win over Shelton.
Jack Shaban, Barlow: Ran for four touchdowns with 170 yards in the Falcons’ 40-6 win against Stratford.
John Shannon, Bullard-Havens: Ran for 140 yards with five touchdowns in a 48-12 win over Cheney Tech.
Christian Bognar, Darien: Senior scored the Blue Wave’s first three touchdowns of the game in a 41-6 win over Danbury.
Sam Gravitte, Ridgefield: Ran for three touchdowns in a win over Wilton.
Alex McMurray, Greenwich: Rushed for 145 yards with four scores in a 62-31 win over Trumbull.
Dave Attolino, Amity: Scored two touchdowns and ran for 179 yards in a 61-43 win over Guilford.
Joe Pacheco, New Fairfield: Ran for five touchdowns in a 48-13 win over Bethel.
Alex McMurray, Greenwich: Ran for 145 yards and four touchdowns on 15 carries in the Cardinals’ 62-31 win over Trumbull.
Sam Panton, Weston: Sophomore rushed for 70 yards and two touchdowns on 13 carries in the Trojans’ 48-20 win over Immaculate on Saturday.
GUNSLINGERS
Ryan Coppola, Westhill: Threw for three touchdowns and 179 yards, ran for another score in a 40-0 win over Central.
Malik Cummings, Masuk: Junior threw a pair of touchdowns and ran for another in a big win over Bunnell.
Drew Tarantino, Newtown: Three four first-half touchdowns with 213 yards in a 35-7 win over Brookfield.
Mike Kreiger, Derby: Threw three touchdowns on his way to 222 yards in the Red Raiders’ win over Wilby.
Brennan Diaz, Oxford: Threw and ran for a pair of scores in a 55-20 romp over ND-Fairfield.
Jose Melo, Greenwich: Junior completed 9-of-13 passes for 205 yards in two touchdowns in Greenwich’s victory over Trumbull.
Nick Cascione, New Canaan: 12 of 18 for 93 yards and two touchdowns and carried the ball 14 times for 108 yards and three touchdowns in a 38-14 win over Brien McMahon
GAMEBREAKERS
Trinity Catholic's Sean Brown (right) celebrates one of his three touchdowns against Norwalk Saturday.
Jake Kasuba, Foran: Sophomore passed for 248 yards with four touchdowns and added 81 rushing yards with a score in a 45-8 win over East Haven.
Angelo Genovesi, Platt Tech: Ran for two touchdowns, threw another and blocked a punt in a 53-8 victory against Whitney Tech.
Dillon McMahon, Derby: Caught six passes — two for touchdowns — for 132 yards in a 53-14 win over Wilby.
Tyler Hassett, Weston: Threw two touchdowns, ran for two touchdowns and returned a punt 50 yards in a win over Immaculate.
Sean Brown, Trinity Catholic: Caught a pair of touchdowns, ran for another in a 27-8 win over Norwalk.
Colin Ventura, Fairfield Warde: Junior running back took the opening kickoff 75-yards for a touchdown, then added a 17-yard touchdown run in the Mustangs’ 29-28 win over Bassick
BRICK WALLS
JaiQuan McKnight, Reshaun Finney, Ansonia: Each returned an interception for a touchdown in a 35-7 win against Holy Cross.
Shaq Rowe, Bullard-Havens: Made 11 tackles with two sacks and a fumble recovery.
Dan Claroni, Greenwich: Senior linebacker registered two sacks, blocked a punt that was recovered in the end zone for a touchdown and recovered a fumble in the Cardinals’ 62-31 win at home against Trumbull.
Lars Pedersen, St. Joseph: Had an interception and returned a fumble 60 yards for a touchdown in a 41-19 win over Stamford
VALIANT IN DEFEAT
Vochan Fowler scores one of his three touchdowns against Fairfield Warde Friday | Photo Amy Mortensen
Vochan Fowler, Bassick: Junior quarterback recorded 252 all-purpose yards, ran for three touchdowns and threw for one in the Lions’ 29-28 loss at Fairfield Warde.
Michael Conlan, Seymour: Ran for and threw a touchdown in the Wildcats’ loss to Wolcott.
Nick Roberts, Trumbull: Pressured throughout, completed 18-of-28 passes for 212 yards and two touchdowns in Trumbull’s loss to Greenwich. Hung tough despite being sacked eight times.
Cameron Webb, Stamford: 139 yards on 18 carries in a 41-19 loss to St. Joseph.
James Coppola, Immaculate: Senior had 56 yards rushing in the first half and returned a kick 70 yards for a touchdown in the third quarter of a 48-20 loss Weston.
Darel Bowman, Immaculate: Sophomore wide receiver hauled in touchdown passes of 64 and 49 yards in the second half of the Mustangs’ loss to Weston.
“Running, blocking, passing — it’s all fun. …We’re all family. We don’t care who gets the ball.”
–Masuk back Thomas Milone after a 63-14 victory over Bunnell
“It feels good to get a win under our belt and show the state that Prep is back.”
Prep quarterback Strecker Backe
–Fairfield Prep quarterback Strecker Backe after a 42-3 rout of Shelton.
“We came in here to find out what tier football team we were and I guess we found out.”
–Brookfield coach Rich Angarano on his team’s 35-7 loss to Newtown
“I’ve never gotten more support in my life.”
–Ridgefield sophomore quarterback Ryan Dunn his 15-of-16, 201-yard, two touchdown performance in a 49-14 rout of Wilton.
“It feels phenomenal. …I’m going to die in my shower now.”
–New Canaan quarterback Nick Cascione, after running for three touchdowns and throwing two more in a 38-14 victory over McMahon.
“That was some half. …We have a lot of weapons on this team.”
–Greenwich coach Rich Albonizio after his team scored 42 points in an eventual 62-31 win over Trumbull.
“Everybody knows what happened. I have a hard time thinking that wasn’t blatant.”
Westhill coach Frank Marcucio (3-1)
–Bassick coach Derrick Lewis on his team’s controversial 29-28 loss to Fairfield Warde. Bassick contends Warde was allowed to set up for the winning field goal because the clock didn’t run after the Mustangs were tackled in-bounds with no time outs remaining.
“We are not a one-man show.”
–Westhill coach Frank Marcucio on his team’s 40-0 rout of Central
“I call him the ‘Wild Boar.’”
–Darien coach Rob Trifone on FB Christan Bognar, who scored Darien’s first three touchdowns in a 41-6 rout of Danbury.
“We know what we’re up against next week. We know everyone probably thinks we don’t have a shot in the world against Masuk. But … I hope we really give them a good game next week. These kids deserve that.”
–New Fairfield coach Anthony Fata, after a 48-13 win over Bethel, looking forward to Friday’s game at 4-0 Masuk.
Tweets of Week 4 (2012)
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It’s Showdown Week in the SCC, the rest are minor tremors.
SCC
Hand (4-0) at Xavier (4-0), Friday, 7 — It’s here! It’s here! The game of the Century of the Decade of the Year is here! Christmastime! Gather ’round kids. Let’s see what Jolly ol’ Filippone-claus and the defending Class L champion Tigers have in store for the two-time defending Class LL champion and state No. 1 Falcons at Palmer Field. Get there early. Grab a seat and hold on tight. It’s go time.
Hillhouse (3-1) at North Haven (3-1), Friday, 7 — Psst! Here’s a secret for you minions foolishly following the lemmings up to Pamer Field: As far as the state playoffs are concerned, in terms of sheer importance, this game beats Hand-Xavier, 10-1.
Fairfield Prep (3-1) at Cheshire (3-1), Friday, 7 — In any other week, this would be huge. As it is, this critical Class LL clash is reduced to an afterthought, buried beneath the hype of the previous two games. But the winner of this game will have a firm grip on its postseason hopes.
SWC
New Fairfield (3-1) at Masuk (4-0), Friday, 7 – OK, Rebels. You’ve unleashed Joe Pacheco on the SWC. Winners of three-straight. How will you guys stand up to Thomas Milone, Frank Bacarella and the high-flying Panthers? Time to put up or… you know.
Newtown (4-0) at Oxford (3-1), Saturday, 12:30 — The same goes for Oxford. We love that the Wolverines are 3-1. Let’s see how they stand up to Dan Hebert, Julian Dunn and the high-flying Nighthawks.
NVL
Seymour (3-1) at Ansonia (4-0), Thursday, 6:30 — Thumped by Wolcott last week for its first loss, Seymour will now attempt to take down NVL powerhouse and state rival Ansonia.
FCIAC
Bassick (0-4) at Central (0-4), Thursday, 4 — Bassick’s coming off a heartbreaking, controversial 29-28 loss to Fairfield Warde. Central lost its fourth-straight game, 40-0 to Westhill. No matter. It’s rivalry week in Bridgeport and these two teams are famished for a victory. Central will press on without quarterback Xavier Hardison, who will miss his second week due to a concussion suffered vs. Danbury.
Stamford (2-2) at Trinity Catholic (4-0), Saturday, 1 — Trinity has a leg-up in the annual Stamford City championship race, having defeated Westhill in Week 1. But, honestly, there’s so much more at stake for the Crusaders this year. This is their biggest test since upending New Canaan in Week 2 and, even though Stamford has lost two straight, the Black Knights are still dangerous. This is a rivalry game. Trinity’s posteason hopes depend on a victory.
CSC
O’Brien Tech (0-4) at Abbott Tech (1-3), Saturday, 1 — Yes, yes. “Throw out the records.” This is a rivalry game. Get excited.
A look back at the who did and said what in Week 2 of the 2012 high school football season.
Compiled by Gary Rogo, Executive Sports Editor of Hearst CT Newspapers, and the Hearst CT Staff.
Bulldozers
Trinity Catholic's Shaquan Howsie carries the ball during Saturday's game against New Canaan at Trinity Catholic High School on September 22, 2012. (Lindsay Niegelberg)
John Shannon, Bullard-Havens: Ran for 163 yards and three TDs on just five carries in 47-0 shutout of Wolcott.
Joe Pacheco, New Fairfield: Rushed for 223 yards and two TDs in a 49-0 shutout of Immaculate.
James Semonella, Amity: Rushed for 172 yards and two TDs in 58-14 rout of Sheehan. Teammates Dave Attolonio (122 yards, 2 TDs) and Corey Ricks (108 yards 2 TDs) also contributed on the ground.
Sam Gravitte, Ridgefield: Rushed for three TDs (8, 4 and 3 yards) and caught a 58-yard scoring pass from Connor Rowe in a 41-14 victory over Fairfield Ludlowe.
Kyle Jordan and Trevon Forney McMahon: Jordan, a senior, rushed for 122 yards and two touchdowns on 17 carries in the Senators’ 41-14 dismantling of Harding. Forney, a junior, added touchdown runs of 53 and 21 yards.
Alex Lockwood, Barlow: Ran for 224 yards and scored on all four of his carries, from 75, 6, 64 and 80 yards, in a 48-20 dismantling of Bethel.
Cooper Gold, Newtown: Rushed 118 yards and two TDs on 14 carries and caught a pass for another score in a 42-7 rout of Pomperaug.
Cameron Webb, Stamford: Carried 16 times for 146 yards and two TDs and added a 28-yard TD reception as Black Knights routed Norwalk 48-7.
Jack Massie and Nick Kelly, Staples: Kelly, who missed the opener with concussion-like symptoms, rushed for two scores and 66 yards on six carries as the Wreckers ran past Central 49-6. Massie ran for scores of 57 and 5 yards.
Shaquan Howsie, Trinity Catholic: Finished with 139 yards and two TDs on 22 carries in the Crusaders’ 31-28 upset of New Canaan in overtime.
Sam Breiner, Stratford: Ran for 97 yards in less than three quarters of work in Stratford’s 37-14 win over ND-Fairfield.
Kory Brown, Brookfield: Ran for a pair of touchdowns in a 33-18 win over Bunnell.
Gunslingers
Jordan Vazzano celebrates after scoring on a 72-yard touchdown run vs. Wilton Saturday. Photo by Autumn Driscoll
Jose Melo, Greenwich: Junior completed 13-of-18 passes for 213 yards and three touchdowns in Greenwich’s 48-2 win over Bassick.
Henry Baldwin, Darien: Threw four TD passes (26, 59 yards, 61 and 67 yards) in 44-21 rout of Warde.
Jordan Vazzano, St. Joseph: Completed 11 of 18 passes for 181 yards and two TDs and ran 72 yards for another score in 34-0 blanking of Wilton.
Brad Westmark, Brookfield: Junior lit up Bunnell for 391 yards and two scores on 25-of-35 passing in a decisive 33-18 victory
Jai’Quan McKnight, Ansonia: Sophomore connected with senior Andrew Matos on three TDs (79, 43 and 24 yards) and ran for a score in a 47-16 victory over Woodland.
Mark Piccirillo, Shelton: In his first varsity start, completed 14 of 28 passes for 222 yards and two touchdowns in a 31-8 victory over Foran
Malik Cummings, Masuk: Threw for 289 yards and two TDs in a 41-21 defeat of New Milford.
Gamebreakers
Tyler Hassett, Weston: Returned an interception 76 yards for a TD; on offense ran 26 yards for a score and threw a 27-yard TD pass in a 32-14 defeat of Oxford.
Noah Provo, Stratford: Ran 10 yards for the game’s first score, then returned an interception 99 yards for a TD in a 37-14 beating of Notre Dame-Fairfield.
Thomas Milone, Masuk: Rushed for 103 yards and four TDs and caught five passes for 82 yards and a fifth TD in a 41-21 defeat of New Milford.
Davell Cotterell, Westhill: 193 yards rushing on 27 carries and 2 TDs, 3 receptions for 34 yards and a TD, and a 62-yard kickoff return in a 37-30 overtime victory over Trumbull. Finished with 339 all-purpose yards. The victory ended a 20-game losing streak and a 39-year winless streak against Trumbull.
Nick Lombardo, Darien: Caught three passes for 134 yards and two touchdowns in Darien’s rout of Fairfield Warde.
Nick Biasetti and Boeing Brown, Brookfield: Biasetti, a junior, caught 8 passes for 143 yards, and Brown, a converted quarterback, chipped in with seven catches for 121 yards and one score in the victory over Bunnell.
Joe Kelly, Greenwich: Senior tight end had three receptions for 86 yards, including touchdown catches of 40 and 41 yards for the Cardinals, who beat Bassick, 48-2
John Benalcazer, Trinity Catholic: Kicked a game-winning 21-yard in the Crusaders’ upset of New Canaan, 28 years to the day of Trinity’s last victory over the Rams.
Brick Walls
Malik Whittaker, McMahon: Junior cornerback scored on a 36-yard interception return in a 41-14 rout of Harding. On offense he carried five times for 57 yards and a touchdown.
Austin Gomar, Weston: Keep Oxford off-stride with two second-half sacks, forcing a fumble in a 32-14 victory.
Sergio Colon, Stratford: Had two interceptions in the Red Devils’ win over ND-Fairfield.
Tyrae Small, Derby: Blocked an extra-point kick to help preserve Red Raiders’ 21-20 victory over Naugatuck. Also intercepted a pass.
Casey Burdick, Brookfield — Intercepted two passes in Brookfield’s 33-18 win over bunnell.
Valiant in defeat
Jack Barfuss, New Canaan: Caught TD passes of 28, 29 and 18 yards in 31-28 overtime loss to Trinity Catholic.
Quentin Brunetti, Trumbull: Quarterback completed 17 of 37 passes for 227 yards and 2 TDs in 37-30 overtime loss to Westhill.
Andrew Calzone, Bunnell – Caught a pair of touchdown passes in Bunnell’s loss to Brookfield
Joe Piantik, Bethel – Ran for a 50-yard score and threw for two more in a 48-20 loss to Barlow.
“…There are ghosts here. Maybe we stirred them a little bit.”
Trinity Catholic coach Peter Stokes on beating New Canaan 31-28 in overtime.
“If words could explain it I would tell you…”
Shaquan Howsie on the feeling of beating New Canaan for first time in 28 years.
“I learned a long time ago that you have to go to your players, not your playbook. So we came in with a good game plan: Give the ball to No. 7.”
Westhill coach Frank Marcucio on his team’s 37-30 OT win over Trumbull, and tailback Dave Cotterell
Stamford's Cameron Webb carries the ball during Friday's game against Norwalk High School at Stamford High School on September 21, 2012. Photo: Lindsay Niegelberg / Stamford Advocate
“Everything just clicked together. I dedicate my performance to Marcus.”
–Stamford back Cameron Webb on his team’s 47-7 rout of Norwalk.
“That was an old-fashioned there boys.”
Norwalk coach Sean Ireland, omitting a few words in describing his team’s loss to Stamford.
“The kid can sling it, huh?”
Brookfield coach Rich Angarano on quarterback Brad Westmark, who was 25-of-35 for 391 yards and three touchdowns in an eye-opening win over Bunnell
“This means we’re back.”
Brookfield captain Tom Salvatore on a 33-18 win over Bunnell
“This isn’t the old Abbott Tech anymore. We’re a good team and we’re looking for Ws.”
Abbott Tech quarterback Greg Ramos after a 28-26 overtime loss to 2011 playoff team Cheney Tech
“I feel I’m starting to get the hang of it. I just felt comfortable back there. Making the proper reads and making the proper passes.”
Ansonia quarterback Jai’Quan Knight in an understatement after torching Woodland on 8-of-9 passing for 216 yards and three touchdowns in a 47-16 victory.
2012 Tweets of Week 2
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FCIAC
Stamford at Ridgefield, Friday, 7 – So Stamford wants to be a player, huh? Maybe they should beat up on someone of their caliber? Seriously, suddenly this is a big game.
St. Joseph at Darien, Saturday, 1:30 – If St. Joseph really is legit, it can muddle the FCIAC championship race with a victory here. Darien has mowed down two Fairfield teams and the Hogs flexed their biceps by dismantling Wilton. Get your tickets now.
McMahon at Staples, Friday, 7 — Both teams are 2-0, but just how far apart are they? This was a barn-burner last season. McMahon’s two-headed running attack of Trey Forney and Kyle Jordan vs. the Staples chimera: Frusciante, Kelly, Zelkowitz and Massie (among others).
SWC
Newtown at Stratford, Friday, 7 – Newtown found its new tailback and seems to have rounded into form with a dominant victory over Pomperaug. Now the Hawks just need to get Danny Hebert involved. Stratford wants to prove it’s for real.
Weston at Pomperaug, Friday, 7 – Pomperaug’s struggles aside, this would be a pretty big win for Weston, especially when you think of how far it’ll go in getting the Trojans a state playoff berth. Pomperaug would love to build beyond a foundation.
SCC
Fairfield Prep at Xavier, Friday, 7 – Fairfield Prep’s BACK! …Or is it? It’s more likely the Jesuits will be found flat on their backs at Palmer Field. But who knows for sure…?
Amity at Shelton, Friday, 7 – These old Housatonic League rivals face off in a “reclamation project” game. They both lost their opening games and then dominated in Week 2. The winner gets to feel a heckuva lot better at 2-1.
Cheshire at Hand, Friday, 7 – Cheshire’s Don Drust is undefeated as head coach. OK, so he’s only 2-0. But the underdog Rams can go a long way in removing that “interim” tag.
West Haven at Notre Dame-West Haven, Friday, 7 – The Westies were down 14-0 against Guilford and moved up in the state polls? The Green Knights would love to prove that was a mistake in the annual Battle of West Haven. (We’re sure the West Haven coaches hate having to play at Veterans Field for a second-straight year).
NVL
Derby at Ansonia, Friday, 7 — Derby is 2-0 and looking good after their solid 21-20 victory over Naugatuck. Asking them to go 3-0 might be a bit too much against their hated rivals, especially the way Ansonia’s playing right now. This will be the 90th meeting between the two schools. Ansonia leads the series 53-28-8.
CSC
Abbott Tech at Bullard-Havens, Saturday, noon –Abbott Tech’s playing well despite losing in double-overtime to Cheney Tech. Bullard-Havens, meanwhile, looks unstoppable in the CSC.
A look back at who did and said what during Week 1 of the high school football season, and a look ahead to Week 2.
BULLDOZERS
Norwalk's Tomar Joseph
Arkell Newsome, Ansonia: A ho-hum 197 yards on nine carries for five touchdowns in the Chargers’ 66-26 win over Torrington.
Tomar Joseph, Norwalk: 119 yards on 27 carries, including a 31-yard rumble to Danbury’s 5-yard, setting up the Bears’ game-sealing touchdown in a 16-6 victory.
Mark Bernstein, Greenwich: 125 yards on 13 carries, helping the Cardinals control the ball in a 20-7 decision over Ridgefield.
Jack Shaban, Barlow: Ran 20 times for 220 yards and three touchdowns in 34-14 victory over New Fairfield.
GUNSLINGERS
Henry Baldwin, Darien: Senior had the deep ball working all night, completing 10-of-23 passes for 269 yards, three touchdowns and one interception in a 41-7 victory over Fairfield Ludlowe.
Bryan Castelot, Bunnell: Opens season with 373 yards and three touchdowns for the senior slinger in a Bunnell 44-35 shootout win over Bethel. 184 of those yard and two TDs went to Devante Teel.
Tyler Hassett, Weston: 12-of-18, 165 yards passing, three touchdowns. 45 yards rushing and two touchdowns in 46-18 win over Notre Dame-Fairfield.
Jose Melo, Greenwich: Junior completed 12-of-19 passes for 279 yards and one touchdown in Greenwich’s season-opening win against Ridgefield.
Brad Westmark, Brookfield: Junior completed 12-of-24 passes for 173 yards and two TDs in a 24-19 victory over Stratford.
Drew Tarantino, Newtown: Threw three touchdown passes (two to Julian Dunn) in a 21-7 win over New Milford.
GAMEBREAKERS
Masuk WR Thomas Milone
Thomas Milone, Masuk: Pomperaug punted to him three minutes into Friday night’s game and paid the price when he took it 60 yards to paydirt for his first of two returns. He also caught an 83-yard touchdown pass on a fly pattern, a 85-yard screen pass (breaking about eight tackles) and a five-yard score on a jumpball in the end zone on his way to five total touchdowns in a 47-10 victory.
Devante Teel, Bunnell: Caught two long touchdown passes in 44-35 victory over Bethel.
Trevon Forney, McMahon: Caught a short pass and raced 79 yards for the winning score in a 33-28 victory over Fairfield Warde. Also scored on a 98-yard run from scrimmage and returned the second half kickoff 90 yards for a TD.
Nick Lombardo, Darien: Wide receiver hauled in four catches for 164 yards, including three touchdown receptions (55, 33 and 63 yards) from Baldwin. Lombardo got behind the defense on all three scoring strikes, but he also was able to break a tackle or two to wind up in the end zone.
James Frusciante, Staples: Senior had six catches (four for 96 yards in the second half), two receiving touchdowns and a 70-yard punt return for touchdown in 49-28 win over St. Joseph.
Joe Kelly, Greenwich: Senior tight end had five receptions for 155 yards, including a 70-yard touchdown catch on the Cardinals’ first drive in their 20-7 win over Ridgefield.
Brett Phillips, Wilton: 29-yard TD run with 2:13 left in game propelled Wilton over Central 35-28. He rushed for 95 yards and two TDs on nine carries. He added 131 yards and a touchdown on 10-of-15 passing.
BRICK WALLS
Greenwich's Taylor Olmstead (40) tackles Ridgefield's Sam Gravitte | Photo by Jason Rearick
Brian Wiegand, Darien: Cornerback intercepted a pair of passes, the first resulting in a touchdown and a 14-0 Blue Wave lead midway through the first quarter.
John Shannon, Bullard-Havens: Scored on an 38-yard interception return and finished with nine tackles and a fumble recovery in a 42-8 rout of Putnam. On the offensive side, he rushed for 151 yards and two TDs.
Andre Cork, Norwalk: With Danbury pinned on its 1-yard line, the senior linebacker dragged down RB Christopher Latham for a safety and a 10-0 Bears lead.
Colton Smith, Fairfield Prep: Sophomore defensive back, a transfer from Newtown, picked off two passes in his varsity debut, a 47-0 rout of Wilbur Cross.
Taylor Olmstead, Greenwich: Picked off a pass from Connor Rowe in the end zone at the beginning of the fourth quarter in a 20-7 victory over Ridgefield.
VALIANT IN DEFEAT
Joseph Piatnik, Bethel: Junior QB, a 6-foot-3 bruiser, ran for 260 yards and three TDs on 24 carries and threw a 9-yard scoring pass to Cal Daniels in a 44-35 loss to Bunnell.
Jake Pelletier, St. Joseph: Senior WR scored caught three TD passes from Jordan Vazzano (26, 10 and 17 yards) and rushed for a 5-yard score in a 49-28 losse to Staples.
Jake Kasuba, Foran: Sophomore threw for 258 yards and three scores in a 55-34 loss to Hillhouse, getting better as the game progressed.
Xavier Hardison, Central: QB was 10 for 21 on 146 yards and rushed nine times for 24 yards and a TD in a 35-28 loss to Wilton.
Victor D’Ascenzo, Fairfield Ludlowe: With his team trailing 34-0 in the third quarter, the WR hauled in a pass from quarterback Matthew White, broke a tackle and won the footrace to the end zone for a 31-yard TD. The scoring strike capped off a 12-play, 80-yard drive.
Tim Maher, Law: Ran for three touchdowns in a 45-42 loss to Sheehan.
“(There are) not a lot of games where you’re going to go in (to halftime) up 53-12 when you give up a special teams touchdown and a touchdown on defense, so you know we’ve got to clean that up.”
-Ansonia coach Tom Brockett on his team’s 66-26 victory over Torrington
Bethel's Joe Piatnik tries to escape Bunnell's Andrew Calzone Friday.
“Their quarterback is an animal. He’s a monster. He was running us over. I thought (Brandon Schmidt) graduated. This kid is unbelievable.”
-Bunnell coach Craig Bruno on Bethel’s Joe Piantik, who ran for nearly 200 yards and three touchdowns in the second half of Bunnell’s 44-34 victory.
“There’s still football program here. We didn’t turn in the helmets because those kids graduated. There’s a tradition here and the kids believe in it and want to uphold their part of the bargain.”
-Masuk coach John Murphy after a 47-10 win over Pomperaug
“We worked hard in practice because we knew this was such an important game for us. We needed this for FCIACs and states.”
-Greenwich safety Taylor Olmstead after a 20-7 win over Ridgefield
“Coming out 28-0, you can’t ask for anything more than that.”
-Darien quarterback Henry Baldwin after the Blue Wave scored touchdowns on its first four possessions in a 41-7 win over Ludlowe.
“We said, ‘Lets get the ball into Tre’s hands and maybe he can make something happen. …Well, he made something happen.”
-McMahon coach A.J. Albano on Trevon Forney’s performance in the Senators’ 33-28 victory over Warde.
“In my three seasons here I’ve never seen a team show so much emotion and take a loss so bad. I’m proud to coach them, we’re going to win some football games here.”
-Stratford coach John Svatik following a 26-19 loss to Brookfield
Shaquan Howsie scores vs. Westhill | Photo by Keelin Daly
“I was up at 4:30 a.m. Saturday. I was so excited I went on YouTube. I was looking at some film clips that Shaq put up there when he was a freshman. He’s so special to me. And I’m so happy with how this day went.”
-Trinity Catholic Peter Stokes on back Shaquan Howsie‘s 81-yard, two touchdown game; his first game in almost 12 months.
“We’ve stuck together through it. We’ve been through some hard times, but the kids have persevered. It showed today on the field. … They wanted to dedicate this season to Brandon and his family, and this is a good way to start.”
-Oxford coach Joe Stochmal after his team’s 35-0 victory, its first since the death of teammate Brandon Giordano last spring.
Tweets of Week 1 (2012)
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FCIAC
Norwalk (1-0) at Stamford (1-0), Friday, 7 p.m. – One of these lucky teams is going to go 2-0. Will it be the Bears, anxious to prove 2011 wasn’t a fluke? Or will the Black Knights prove they still have good football talent?
Central (0-1) at Staples (1-0), Friday, 7 p.m. — Still smarting from a last-minute loss vs. Wilton, the Hilltoppers have a chance make amends by toppling the FCIAC favorites. They’d better hope Staples’ standout back Nick Kelly returns from injury.
Wilton (1-0) at St. Joseph (0-1), Saturday, noon — Brett Phillips led Wilton to victory vs. Central. St. Joseph is anxious to show it can put a complete game together after its loss to Staples.
New Canaan (1-0) at Trinity Catholic (1-0), Saturday, 1 p.m. – Shaquan Howsie and Trinity Catholic would love nothing more than to knock off the perennial FCIAC favorites at home.
NVL
Woodland (1-0) at Ansonia (1-0), Friday, 7 p.m. — Both NVL squads flexed their collective muscles in Week 1. Will Tanner Kingsley, Anthony Scripo and the Hawks pose any serious problems for the Chargers? Or will this be another Arkeel Newsome freak show?
Naugatuck (1-0) at Derby (1-0), Friday, 7 p.m. – Dillon McMahon ran wild in Derby’s convincing, 55-26 victory over St. Paul. The Red Raiders hope to keep the good vibes going when Mick Pernell and the Greyhounds visit DeFillipo field.
SCC
Hand (1-0) at Hillhouse (1-0), Friday, 4 p.m. — It’s crossover week in the SCC. This heavyweight battle of Division I and II teams is as good as it gets.
North Haven (1-0) at Xavier (1-0), Friday, 7 p.m. – Like the game above, this one pits a power of Division I and a power of Division II. This one might not be so pretty.
Foran (0-1) at Shelton (0-1), Friday, 7 p.m. – Both SCC teams are looking for redemption after tough Week 1 losses.
SWC
Brookfield (1-0) at Bunnell (1-0), Friday, 7 p.m. — Fresh off a solid victory over Stratford, Brookfield looks to continue its reclamation project against Bryan Castelot high-powered Bunnell.
Barlow (1-0) at Bethel (0-1), Friday, 7 p.m. — Jack Shaban put on a show in Barlow’s victory over New Fairfield, as did Bethel’s Joe Piatnik in a loss to Bunnell. This oughta be interesting.
Weston (1-0) at Oxford (1-0), Saturday, noon — Both teams handled their Week 1 opponents with ease. Who’s for real?
[Compiled by Executive sports editor Gary Rogo; Written by Sean Patrick Bowley and the staff of the Greenwich Time, Stamford Advocate, News-Times, and Connecticut Post.]
“The guy actually has no class whatsoever. The guy was 100 percent wrong and he knows he’s wrong. The way I took it, I think he was saying [explicative] to the CIAC.”
