Stow Ends Losing Streak Against North Royalton
Stow Ends Losing Streak Against North Royalton
Written By: Austin Souvanarath
It has been over a full season since Stow last secured a victory. Heading into week 7, the Bulldogs were determined to snap their 16-game losing streak. Stow-Munroe Falls celebrated homecoming week by hosting the North Royalton Bears, wrapping up a splendid September. North Royalton, with a record of 1-5, was also having an unfortunate season. The evening began at 7 pm, following a delightful homecoming parade, a festival of food and music, and a groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of their new fieldhouse, expected to be completed within the next year.
Clash Between Bulldog & Bear
North Royalton initiated the game, driving down the field and scoring with a 2-yard pass from Joe Kinney to Luke Koprowski, leading 7-0. The rest of the 1st quarter saw a defensive tug-of-war, marked by an interception by Tyler Harrington and a fumble recovery by Jack Buchholz. North Royalton's Joe Kinney completed a 29-yard pass to Joey Calarco to conclude the quarter. Stow managed to score late in the 2nd quarter with a swift 2-yard rushing touchdown by Jake Harrington, making it 14-7. However, North Royalton's defense held firm, entering halftime with a 17-7 lead.
With their backs against the wall, the Bulldogs came out of their locker room looking like a completely different team. Despite North Royalton's momentum, Stow quickly turned the tables. Their defense, led by Walter Kirtland, Desmond Boyd Jr., Maddox Snyder, Josh Whited, Caden Boyd, Jake Gosselin, Tyler Harrington, Jeremy Turner, Evan Walker, and Aiden Clark, was impenetrable, allowing no scores for the remaining 24 minutes. They also forced multiple turnovers and recoveries. Stow's offense, under Jake Harrington, shone with a 21-yard touchdown pass to Daylon Keeling, who evaded multiple Bears defenders. With the momentum shift, Bulldog Stadium buzzed with excitement. As the 4th quarter approached, North Royalton desperately sought to extend their lead.
However, their efforts were in vain. They lost the ball on a turnover, giving Stow possession on their 5-yard line with just 4 minutes remaining. Under immense pressure, the Bulldogs' offense steadily advanced down the field. A crucial 4th down pass from Jake Harrington to Andy Rickelman kept their hopes alive. Immediately after, Paul Biltz sprinted 27 yards to score, putting Stow ahead 21-17 with only 1 minute and 40 seconds left. Bulldog Stadium erupted in joy. The Bears had one last opportunity to clinch the win, but Stow's defense remained unyielding. The game concluded with Harrington taking a knee, and celebrations began.
Coach Poder Reflects on the Victory
Post-game, Coach Martin Poder was overwhelmed with joy. This win was monumental for the Bulldogs and their supporters, ending a 15-game losing streak and keeping their playoff aspirations alive in Division I Region I. Poder praised his team's growth and resilience. He likened the game's progression to their season's trajectory, emphasizing their potential. Poder expressed immense pride in his team's performance, highlighting the joy of victory in football. He cherished the post-game celebrations, reminiscing about past Stow football legends. Poder concluded by emphasizing the team's mantra to "Block out the noise" and "Finish Strong." He urged his players to continue striving for excellence and to be the change-makers for the program. After their triumphant homecoming, the Stow Bulldogs are eager for their next challenge against the Wadsworth Grizzlies, while North Royalton, now 1-6, will face Twinsburg in their final away game of the regular season.
Key Players of the Game:
Jake Harrington: 222 Pass Yards, 1 Pass TD, 39 Rush Yards, 1 Rush TD
Daylon Keeling: 2 Recs, 71 Yards, 1 TD
Joey Lehner: 3 Recs, 67 Yards
Andy Rickelman: 4 Recs, 55 Yards, Key 4th Down Reception Leading to GW TD
Tyler Harrington: 3 Recs, 31 Yards, 3 Solo Tackles, 5 Assists, 1 INT
Paul Biltz: 9 Carries, 56 Yards, Go-Ahead GW TD
Jake Gosselin: 6 Solo Tackles, 3 Assists
Maddox Snyder: 1 Solo Tackle, 13 Assists, 1 INT, 1 Fumble Recovery
Walter Kirkland: 3 Solo Tackles, 5 Assists, 1 Sack, 2 TFL
Desmond Boyd Jr.: 2 Solo Tackles, 4 Assists
Evan Walker: 2 Solo Tackles, 4 Assists
Aiden Clark: 2 Solo Tackles, 5 Assists