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Gang Green
Joe
Phelan is a senior at Monsignor Bonner. Ever since his youth, he has
wanted to write for a newspaper or magazine, but for now he'll settle for
this wacky website. Joe plays basketball for the Friars. We thank Joe for
his interest, and contributions. |
NOV. 30
BONNER FOOTBALL TRIBUTE
It has been an extremely busy few weeks since the O’Hara-Bonner
semifinal playoff game. I was unable to write a report for the game due to some
unexpected news the day after the game. My grandfather, a gigantic
influence on my life, suddenly died. It put a damper on my intended plans to
write a report and with basketball having started I’ve been so busy . . . well,
I have finally gotten time to write a little season recap for the Friars
football team. I have conducted this tribute to the Friars on a season that was
filled with some lofty expectations. The hype for the 2010 season was great. Led
by dual threat quarterback Sean Quarterman, the rushing attack of
Ismir Gibson, the solid receiving corps that included James Okike,
Jamie Juisti, John McGilligan, and Anthony Jackson, and added with
the grunts of the offensive line, Marcus Collins, Ty Ngyuen, Tyler Ramirez,
Tom Murtha, Ron Scull, Derrick Ferguson and Brendon Garrison, helped
stimulate a Friars' offense that at some times during the season looked
inexorable. The defense was the true staple of this team. Led by Marcus Collins,
the defense continued to battle against the best offenses in the State. West
Catholic, La Salle and Wood are all led by terrific offensive players, but
Bonner’s defense really wasn’t too shabby while facing them. They were defined
as a team that made big plays on defense when they needed to. They also had a
fair share of “big” hits, most notably, sophomore Jim Haley, who
continued to impress me throughout the season. Joe Haley, Jim Murphy, Vince
Dalterio, Ron Scull, Marcus Collins made up the line backing crew for much
of the season. Although Dalterio missed much of the season due to a knee injury
as did Murphy, who hurt his ankle. The secondary was an extremely beneficial
weapon for the Friars this year. Leadership and experience best describe four of
the seniors who helped prevent opposing quarterbacks from making any substantial
plays. Jamie Jusiti, Dan Dougherty, Mike Ianovale, and Anthony Jackson
were the seniors who were in the defensive back rotation. John Pontarelli
and Jim Haley also were in the mix. The defensive line was dominant. Andrew
Hackett, Tyler Ramirez, Tom Murtha, Derrick Ferguson, Dan Lutes,
Brendon Garrison, Ty Ngyuen helped lead a very underrated and under appreciated
defensive line. The season showed a 5-5 record for the Friars. The O’Hara
playoff game was a strong indication about this team’s spirit and hard work, and
how hard they continuously fought throughout the season. Nobody can ever take
that away from Bonner. How hard they fought throughout the year. Despite
injuries and different adversities thrown their way, they were fighters in every
sense of the word. I’m proud to call them by classmates and I’m truly honored to
have written for them this season. The team has a lot to look forward to next
year with the return of a handful of underclassman who will make a sturdy
nucleus. Although the seniors will be deeply missed, the likes of John
McGilligan, Joe and Jim Haley, Ron Scull, Tyler Ramirez, Ismir Gibson, among
others really gives Friar fans optimism for next season. I want to thank Ted
Silary for giving me this opportunity to write for this outstanding website.
I learned a lot from him and from Mr. Pat McLoone, a Daily News
Editor and a tremendous benefactor when it comes to giving advice. Mr. McLoone
helped me throughout the whole season, giving me tips to better my writing and
my reporting. Unfortunately I will not be writing for Bonner’s basketball team
since I am on the team but I will retake my position as Gang Green writer come
spring time.
Tribute: My Grandpop
The biggest influence in my life has always been my grandfather,
Dan McKeever. A graduate of West Catholic, he always was involved in my
life. On Sunday, November 7, tragedy shocked the McKeever family when my
grandpop died of a massive heart attack at 2:35 PM at Bryn Mawr Hospital. When I
say everyone loved my grandpop, I really mean it. He lived by three words,
Faith, Love, and Family. I was recently accepted into St. Bonaventure and the
first person I called other than my parents of course, was my grandpop. He was
so excited. I think he was more excited then I was. He cared so much about his
grandchildren that he always put their wants and needs in front of his own. I
just wanted to express the influence he had on my life, especially my writing.
He will be forever remembered in my heart and my mind and I know he watches over
me every day and is truly my guardian angel. God Bless him and God Bless my
family, which continues to mourn the loss of one of the truly amazing people in
this world.
OCT. 29
CATHOLIC AAA
Bonner 41, Carroll 14
Senior Night took place on Friday night and Bonner handled Carroll
pretty easily at Upper Darby High School. With a well operated attack of run and
pass the Friars put up 41 points. I arrived with less than 9 minutes remaining
in the 1st quarter and Bonner was well in Carroll territory. Ismir Gibson
took a Sean Quarterman handoff into the end zone for the early 7-0 Friar
lead. Gibson finished with 91 yards rushing and that TD. Both teams were winless
in Catholic League play coming into the game. With the new Catholic League
division alignments, both Carroll and Bonner already clinched playoff berths due
to the simple fact: there are only four teams in 3A. But a win would bode well
for either team to place confidence in them as they both do battle with two
premiere teams (Wood and O’Hara) next weekend. Marcus Collins, Tyler Ramirez,
Brendon Garrison and Ron Skull made some great snuffs on Carroll’s
ensuing drive. The pressure from the weak side forced Jalal Timmons into
some mistimed throws and the FG try was no good for the Patriots. Connor
McGrath, Matt Donaldson, Bill Ghaul, Bill “Bear” McClatchy and Greg
DiSanto were bright spots for the Patriots D. McGrath and Donaldson combined
for a sack on Quarterman that forced Bonner into a punt on their next
possession. The defense of Bonner, anchor by Collins, Joe Haley and some
fine defensive backs (Dan Dougherty, Mike Ianovale, John Pontarelli, Jim
Haley), forced Carroll into a 3 and out on their next drive. Gibson rushed
to right for a big gain on 1st and 10 and later Jamie Juisti poured in a
rushing touchdown to extend Bonner’s lead to 14-0. Jim Haley picked up a fumbled
snap which set shop for a 32 yard touchdown pass from Quarterman to James
Okike to dig an even deeper hole for Carroll. The Patriots got a pretty big
boost as Greg DiSanto took Matt Hudash’s KO well inside Friar
territory. And later on that drive, Ryan Shea scored a rushing touchdown
from 5 yards out to cut Bonner’s led to 21-7. Bonner had a quick strike on their
following possession as John McGilligan caught a Quarterman pass and took
it 71 yards to the house. Abe Jaward leveled a Patriot defender on the
play, which helped propel McGilligan into the end zone. The half ended just like
that, Bonner with a 28-7 advantage. The Patriots returned the KO to start the
2nd half. Andrew Hackett, Collins, and Jim Haley made some key
contributions on that drive. Hackett had a tackle for a loss, Collins had two
tackles for no gains, and Haley put a licking on a Patriot receiver. But on 4th
and 12, Jalal Timmons found an open receiver which put Carroll in striking
distance for a score. After a PI was issued to a Bonner defensive back the
Patriots were able to work up a 3 yard touchdown run, compliments of Dan
Parke. AC tried a trick play in the form of an onside kick on their KO
but it wasn’t fooling Bonner. Bonner recovered the kick and then Juisti was en
route to a 32 yard touchdown run. Jusiti finished with 92 yards rushing on 7
carries; he also had a reception for 10 yards. Alex Richards made a nice
play on special teams and was then applauded by the entire Friar bench. It was a
heartwarming moment as Alex celebrated senior night with his teammates.
Quarterman rushed in for a 5 yard touchdown to totally seal the victory for the
Friars late in the 4th quarter. Timmons finished with 107 yards passing, while
his counterpart, Quarterman, totaled 154 yards passing and a pair of touchdowns.
Anthony Jackson had 2 catches for 41 yards while the Carroll running
backs, Peabody, Franklin, Parke, and Shea combined for 124 yards rushing. Bonner
will take on O’Hara on Saturday in the semi-finals of the 3A Catholic League
playoffs.
Player of the Game: Jim Haley
One of the most improved Bonner players has to be Jim Haley. He went from
seeing situational plays into starting and playing a prominent role as a
defensive back and offensive specialist. He also returned punts throughout this
game. His bone crushing hits really jump out at you, and he is only a sophomore.
Extra Points:
* Mrs. Hudash
(mother of K/P Matt) came up to me at halftime to express her affection for my
Gang Green column, and as a tribute to her kind words, I wanted to give her a
little shoutout in this game’s review. Also to the two Carroll girls who we both
were talking with at halftime.
* Rich Young, a
Bonner senior, dressed as the famous Friar for Friday’s game. It was his first
game in the mascot uniform and he did a terrific job supporting his school. Also
he had the best seat in the house (on the sidelines) to watch his two cousins
(Joe and Jim Haley) play football. Wait until baseball season when they’re all
on the same team.
* Bonner Hockey
defeated Archbishop Ryan on Thursday night, 4-3. Billy Gregg and Dan
Schwartzman each had two goals. The next hockey game will be Monday night
for the Friars as they take on newly formed Pope John Paul II.
* Congratulations to
Bonner Soccer’s own Ryan Wellman (1st team All-Catholic) and Tim Coady
(3rd team All-Catholic) for a job well done and a terrific season.
OCT. 23
CATHOLIC AAA
Wood 31, Bonner 0
It was homecoming for the 4-3 Friars but it was the Peoples who stole
the show for the undefeated Vikings. Both Desmon and Brandon
provided a copious amount of highlights as Wood breezed past Bonner for their
8th win of the season. The two cousins combined for 201 yards rushing on 22
carries and 3 scores. The Friars opened with the ball and showed some flare with
a double pass which resulted in a 31 yard gain. Sean Quarterman threw a
pass to Soph. Jim Haley who then lofted a ball to Anthony Jackson
for the big gain. But after an illegal forward pass, the Friars were forced to
punt and Wood took over. Wood drove the ball down the field thanks to runs from
both Peoples, catches from Sam McCain, and ultimately found the promised
land via Brandon Peoples. Wood’s defense imposed Quarterman to throw an
ill-advised interception to Jr. TE/DE Colin Thompson on the ensuing
Friars possession. The turnover gave Wood great field position and just like
that Desmon Peoples was in the end zone to give Wood the 14-0 lead. Bonner’s
offensive took over and after a first down catch from John McGilligan the
Friars were forced to punt back to the Vikings. As much as Wood seemed to be in
the driver’s seat for much of the game, Bonner’s defense really wasn’t too
shabby. Marcus Collins is a beast from the middle linebacker spot, the
two Haley brothers, Joe and Jim, have really made a difference
through their gigantic hits and stout tackling, and Andrew Hackett, who
recently came back from injury, continues to have a stellar season. Towards the
end of the 1st half Desmon Peoples LEAPED over an anonymous Friar defender but
as a result he was blasted by Joe Haley. I was truly amazed by the athleticism
of Desmon, who is obviously quick, shifty and a thrill to watch. The Friars D
forced Wood into only 3 points, a 25 yard FG from Nick Visco, as the half
ended with Wood ahead 17-0. Hackett sacked Joey Monaghan to start the 2nd
half and Wood punted the ball. Ismir Gibson got the Friars off to the
right foot with their first possession of the 2nd half. Gibson carried the ball
for a 14 yard gain, and he finished with 34 yards on the ground. But after two
sacks, one from Frank Taylor and the other from Brian Butler,
Bonner had to punt. Joe Santospago scored for Wood from 4 yards out with
a rush to give Wood the 24-0 lead with 3:03 remaining in the 3rd quarter. And
the final touchdown was a 35 yard rush halfway through the 4th quarter from
Brandon Peoples. Joey Monaghan finished with 109 yards passing, and his fellow
competitor, Sean Quarterman, had 57 yards on 6 of 14 passing.
Player of the Game: The Peoples cousins
Both Desmon and Brandon were electric throughout the game. Despite
Desmon missing some of the 2nd half he managed 93 yards on the ground, while
cousin Brandon torched the Friars D with 103 rushing yards.
Extra Point:
The Bonner Soccer team made the playoffs for the first time in 10
years but unfortunately lost their first round match to Lansdale Catholic, 2-1
on Friday afternoon. Chris Goggin provided the goal for the Friars with
less then 10 minutes in the first half. They were able to turn around a winless
Catholic league program from a year ago into a 4 win and playoff bound program.
Coach Strandberg’s team was led by Seniors Ryan Patrick Wellman, Tim Coady,
Kevin Tarpey, Justin Coyne, J.T Weis, and goalie Nick Previti, who
will all be missed next year. Lots of talent will be coming back for the Friars
as they return starters Dan “Mugzy” McLoone, Bliss Harris, Mike Proska
and Rob Rura. Congratulations on a successful season and good luck with
the future of this up and coming program.
OCT. 16
CATHOLIC AAAA
O’Hara 16, Bonner 6
It was a breezy fall afternoon at the brand new beautiful artificial
turf field at O’Hara. The gusting wind was a factor as it probably was a problem
for many high school games in the Delaware Valley. Bonner took on O’Hara in its
annual brawl for Catholic League bragging rights. In the newly aligned divisions
these two teams could possibly meet up again during the playoffs but for right
now let me give a recap of just what went down on Saturday afternoon. Both teams
were extremely hyped for this game. The adrenaline and energy was kicking in
long before the opening kickoff. This game has been talked about ever since
Bonner and O’Hara took care of their previous opponents, eight days prior to
Saturday. Bonner defeated Chestnut Hill, 37-20, and O’Hara cruised by Red Lion
Christian, 30-0, last Friday night. The Friars started with the ball and on the
very first offensive play Ismir Gibson took a Sean Quarterman
handoff and rushed to the right for an 11-yard gain. But the opening drive was
hindered as O’Hara gained control at their 39. Adam Dempsey had a 6 yard
run, an 8 yard catch and on 4th and 1 he rushed for a 52 yard touchdown to
complete the Lions' first drive. Steve Weyler made it 7-0 with his extra
point. Sean Quarterman was pressured all day from the Lions' defensive line and
linebackers, and the second drive for Bonner was a strong indication of just how
dominant the defense for O’Hara was. After a no gain on first down, Quarterman
was taking down for a loss of 9 yards on the following play and on 3rd and 19
Quarterman mishandled the snap which resulted into a safety and a 9-0 O’Hara
lead. Neither offense was really in sync throughout the game. Drives were
stalled by great, great defensive plays. The defensive play of the game came
from Bonner’s Brendon Garrison with 42.5 seconds remaining in the 1st
quarter. He recovered a fumble and brought it 35 yards to the house for Bonner’s
first defensive touchdown of the season and their eventual lone score of the
game. Due to the wind though, the extra point was no good, and the Friars
trailed 9-6. Ryan Laughlin’s pass was intercepted by Soph. Jim Haley
on an ensuing play but O’Hara’s defense came up huge as they forced and
recovered a fumble. I really can’t emphasize how big of a role defense and the
wind played in this game. Plays were made from Bonner defenders Joe Haley,
Marcus Collins, Andrew Hackett, Brendon Garrison, Dan
Dougherty, Anthony Jackson, Mike Ianovale, Dan Lutes, amid others. The last
score of the contest came with 2:42 left in the 2nd quarter and that was it for
the scoring. WR Tyler Gallen made a vicious hit that allowed O’Hara’s
Damiere Shaw to rush for a 50 yard touchdown. Shaw rushed for 117 on 11
carries, Dempsey had 95 yards on 18 carries, and Brendan McLaughlin
had 9 carries for 46 yards. O’Hara’s defense had a handful of sacks; one in
particular was from Soph. Brandon Chatmon, which came in the third
quarter. The speedy, bruising, and versatile linebacker came off the edge to
make a pretty sweet play. O’Hara’s defense, led by Shawn Driggins, Drew
Formica, Ryan Laughlin, Adam Dempsey, Tom Familetti, Brendan McLaughlin,
among others caused pandemonium for the Friars, who were detained to merely
sixty yards of total offense. Both offenses were irrelevant for much of the
second half. Quarterman finished with 3 completions for 28 yards and his
counterpart, Ryan Laughlin had 4 completions for 36 yards. As you can tell from
the mediocre quarterback numbers, the wind played an issue. I left a little
early but for good reason, I was heading down to Citizens Bank Park for Game 1
of the NLCS. Next up for Bonner, another undefeated Catholic League team, the
Archbishop Wood Vikings for the Friars’ homecoming, and O’Hara takes on the
Archbishop Carroll Patriots.
Player of the Game: Brendon Garrison
I might be a little biased but hey I really
dislike O’Hara, almost as much as I dislike Cody Ross. Garrison’s touchdown kept
the Friars in reach for much of the game. He, along with his fellow teammates,
made exceptional plays on defense.
OCT. 8
NON-LEAGUE
Bonner 37, Chestnut Hill 20
Speed kills. And the Friars backfield led by Jamie Juisti, Ismir
Gibson, and John McGilligan used their speed to kill the Blue Devils
defense. Each running back surpassed the century mark, and totaled for 363 yards
on only 22 combined carries. The Friars first possession took all but three
plays which resulted in a 29 yard run from Gibson. The Blue Devils quickly
answered with a score of their own. Danny Gallagher used his legs and arm
to get Chestnut Hill on the board, a 7 yard pass to Bobby Keyes plus the
extra point gave the Blue Devils the 7-6 lead. Gallagher finished with 116 yards
rushing and 87 yards passing. He looked unstoppable on a few quarterback
keepers. One play gave the Friars back the lead as Jamie Juisti took a Sean
Quarterman handoff for a 77 yard touchdown. The 2 point conversation failed
and the Friars were on top, 12-7. Joe Haley made a touchdown saving
tackle on Matt Primavera after Primavera caught a ball from Gallagher.
The tackle saved points for the time being but a few moments into the 2nd
quarter the Blue Devils were able to regain momentum with a Cedric Manning
touchdown for the 14-12 Chestnut Hill advantage. Another short drive, another
long run equaled another Bonner touchdown. This one was a 55 yard rush from
McGilligan. The Blue Devils had immediate answer for the Friars. Gallagher had a
touchdown run from beyond 20 yards on Chestnut Hill’s ensuing drive but the
Friars were able to block the extra point. After Bonner punted the ball for the
first time in the game with 5:26 remaining in the 2nd quarter, Marcus Collins
and Brendon Garrison were able to force a fumble for the Blue Devils, and
Juisti gave the Friars the lead for good with 1:37 left in the half. The 2 yard
rush put Bonner in front 24-20 at half.
If you have read any of my reports this year or seen the Friars play, the
story has always been defense in the second half. And this game was no exception
as the defense created pressure on Danny Gallagher and the rest of the Blue
Devils' offense. Mike Ianovale, Brendon Garrison, Marcus Collins, and
Ron Skull were constantly applying pressure on the quarterback. The Blue
Devils were able to prolong the drive to start the 3rd quarter. Despite taking
more than 7 minutes off the clock, Chestnut Hill was unable to generate any
points as they missed a FG attempt. And before you could say Bonner reclaimed
possession, the Friars were in the end zone, thanks to a 62 yard rush from
McGilligan. The defense of Bonner continued to keep Chestnut Hill out of their
end zone for the rest of the game with continuous plays from Jim Haley, Dan
Lutes, Tyler Ramirez, Dan Dougherty, among others. Bonner fashioned one more
touchdown, an impressive 50 yard run from Gibson. It could have been a 3 yard
plunge but instead Gibson kept at it, drove his feet and eventually found
himself in the end zone. Anthony Jackson’s interception sealed the
Friars' 37-20 victory with less than 3 minutes remaining in the 4th quarter.
Bonner improves to 4-2 and gets set for undefeated Catholic League rival,
Cardinal O’Hara in an ever important AAA Catholic League contest. Oh, I cannot
wait for Saturday!
Player of the Game: The Friars running backs
22 carries for 363 yards doesn’t really need that much explaining. Juisti,
Gibson, and McGilligan all played electrifying and enticing football.
OCT. 2
NON-LEAGUE
Bonner 28, Interboro 19
I was unable to attend Bonner’s last game, which was a loss to La
Salle last Friday. Bonner bounced back nicely from that loss with a win Saturday
evening against cross county rival, Interboro. The venue was Upper Darby High
School, and it was a gently, chilled October evening. With fall in full effect,
it was perfect football weather. Bonner received the ball to start the game and
ended up turning it on downs after 4 plays. Interboro, which is led by
quarterback Adam Smith, was forced to punt after gaining 1 first down on
their first drive, but Bonner’s Jamie Juisti coughed up the punt and it
was recovered inside the 10 by Interboro. A throw from Smith to Joe O'Mara
gave the Bucs the early lead. Bonner answered on the following drive with a 27
yard touchdown run compliments of Ismir Gibson. Gibson carried the ball
fifteen times for 84 yards. Interboro scored on the ensuing drive with a 4 yard
run from Mitch Hellmendollar, the extra point was no good, 13-7 Interboro.
Now the next Friars possession ended in a turnover on downs, and with Interboro
in good field position it didn’t look to good for the Friars, but stops by
Marcus Collins and Jim Haley stalled the Bucs and forced them to
punt. Starting at Bonner's 6 yard line, Quarterman hit John McGilligan,
who then made an unbelievable run after the catch which resulted in a 54 yard
gain. He then made a 16 yard grab on 3rd and 15. McGilligan used great
intelligence when he caught the ball to get the first down and have the presence
of mind to get out of balance. McGilligan finished with 145 yard on 7 catches.
After Anthony Jackson caught a pass to get just inside the 10 yard line,
Sean Quarterman threw a gorgeous pass to James Okike in the end
zone. Hudash’s kick was good and the Friars looked to be heading into the locker
room with a 14-13 lead. But on the kickoff a Bonner played forced a fumble which
was recovered by a green jersey. I couldn’t tell who forced or who recovered the
fumble, but I would sure like to find out who forced it because it was a
tremendous hit. McGilligan continued his already impressive first half with a 29
yard receiving touchdown with 5 seconds remaining in the half to put the Friars
up 21-13. Defense, like countless times this year, was the tale for the Friars
in the second half. Marcus Collins, Mike Ianovale, John Pontarelli, Dan
Dougherty, Ty Nguyen, Brendon Garrison, Vince Dalterio, Jim Haley all made
plays to help prevent Interboro from scoring. Pontarelli had a great tackle on
Interboro’s first second half possession and he also picked off an Adam Smith
pass. The goose egg in both teams’ 3rd quarter box score indicates how much
defense played a factor. The 4th quarter began with Sean Quarterman scrambling
for a 39 yard gain, and to top it off he hurdled over a defender to end the
play. It showed amazing athleticism and control from the swift footed
quarterback. The drive however resulted in a punt and the Bucs got the ball back
and were able to score with a 2 yard run from David Kennedy. Since
Interboro missed the previous extra point they were force to go for 2, and
Marcus Collins, like he has been doing all year, made a play. Collins batted
Smith's pass to the ground, and for the moment made a game-saving play. Gibson
scored his second touchdown of the night with an 18 yard scurry with 3:35
remaining in the game. Sacks by Garrison and Joe Haley on Interboro’s next drive
forced the Bucs into a turnover on downs and Quarterman lined the Friars up for
a few knee downs, to give the Friars the 28-19 victory.
Player of the Game: Sean Quarterman
I was debating between Quarterman, Gibson, and McGilligan for player
of the game but in the end Quarterman made the throws that gave Bonner the win.
The one pass that jumps at me the most was the 10 yard pass to Okike in the end
zone. He also gave Jackson, Juisti, and McGilligan running room for after the
catch yardage. He ended the game with 204 yards passing, 44 yards rushing and
two touchdown passes.
SEPT. 17
NON-LEAGUE
Bonner 21, Lansdale 16
On a rather chilly middle September evening, Bonner
took on Lansdale Catholic in its home opener at Upper Darby High School. Due to
my job as a sacristan at St. Dorothy’s Church (the wedding ran a little late) I
arrived in the middle of the 1st quarter with the Friars up 7-0 on a pass from
Sean Quarterman to back up QB Jim Haley, who was lined up as a
wideout and then threw a pass to James Okike for the 63 yard touchdown.
Mr. McCauley, the Friars assistant baseball coach and also my former 8th grade
teacher, told me it was a beauty. The Crusaders were able to score with under a
minute to go in the 1st quarter, thanks to a 3 yard run by Devon Barrett. The
offensive line for the Friars, led by senior Derrick Ferguson, juniors
Ron Skull, Tom Murtha, Ty Nguyen and Tyler Ramirez played a sound
game. They shaped much running opportunity for Sean Quarterman and Ismir
Gibson. After Quarterman picked up 2 first downs using his legs, Ismir
Gibson busted through the Crusaders defense for a 22-yard run that set up an
end-around to John McGilligan for the touchdown. Matt Hudash gave
the Friars the 14-7 lead. On the following possession, Bonner’s defense made a
stand when Andrew Hackett forced a fumble which was recovered by the
Friars own Brendon Garrison. With 5:32 remaining in the 2nd quarter Ismir Gibson
ran for a 14 yard touchdown to give the Friars the 21-7 lead. Catches by Seniors
Matt Pinzka and Rich Walsh, plus fine running from
Andrew Mandato and Mike Bradley, gave the Crusaders the ball inside
Bonner’s five yard line with 23.3 seconds remaining in the 1st half. Mandato
took the snap and rushed in for the touchdown. The extra point was no good and
the halftime score was 21-13 in favor of the Friars. Now defense was the story
of the 2nd half. I’m not really sure of the time of possession but Lansdale
Catholic seemed to have the ball much of the 2nd half. Bonner’s defense wasn’t
able to dominate the half but they made plays when they absolutely needed to.
They prevented any big plays from happening and even when they made mistakes
they fought with resiliency. That shows plenty about the character of this team,
and about the senior leaders. For instance on a 3rd and goal on Lansdale’s first
2nd half possession, Dan Dougherty broke up an Andrew Mandato pass
attempt in the end zone. The Crusaders had to settle for the FG to cut the
Friars' lead to 21-16. On the next drive Jamie Juisti gave the Friars a
first down on a well designed screen but Lansdale Catholic was able to take over
after the Friars picked up a few first downs on that drive. Dan Lutes
made a remarkable play for the Friars towards the end of the 3rd quarter when he
batted down a pass attempt on 3rd down but an inadvertent roughing the punter
call beset the Friars on the Crusaders' ensuing play. However, the Crusaders
weren’t able to turn the Friar miscue into points. Lansdale Catholic looked to
have something going in the middle of the 4th quarter. When Hudash punted the
ball inside the end zone for the touchback, Andrew Mandato started the drive on
the twenty. Matt Pinzka made a heck of a catch at the 42 yard line for the
Crusaders, and when stuck with a 4th and 9 with 4:44 left in the game the
Crusaders converted a first down to the 28. After a first down catch by Pinzka,
the Crusaders had a first down on the Friars 17. But after 3 plays, including a
snap that whistled by Mandato, who was tackled close to the 35 yard line by
wrestler, track sensation and Friars linebacker Marcus Collins, the
Crusaders were forced into a 4th and 28. The Friars prevailed on 4th down
and escaped with a narrow 21-16 victory to improve to 2-1 on this young season.
Next up for the Friars: the defending AAAA state champions, La Salle.
Player of the game: the Friars offensive line
The first half belonged to the front five, as they created huge holes for
McGilligan, Gibson, and Quarterman. They also were successful in passing
blocking and screen plays, hats off to Ron Skull, Derrick Ferguson, Tyler
Ramirez, Tom Murtha, and Ty Nguyen for their terrific effort to help give Bonner
its win.
Notes:
Marcus Collins is some fighter. He played with much intensity the
entire contest and throughout the early part of this year. In this day and age
when athletes focus solely on one sport, it is pretty impressive when a guy like
Marcus Collins excels on the football field, on the track, and on the mat.
Bonner’s “Gang Green” was in full effect this
evening. “Jingle Bells” and “John Jacob Jingleheimer Schmidt” were sung. Not
sung well but sung nonetheless. It was just a little tune up for the big
Carroll/Bonner hockey game on October 21.
SEPT. 10
NON-LEAGUE
West Catholic 27, Bonner 6
Monsignor Bonner faced West Catholic for the first time since 2004 on
Friday evening at Widener’s Quick Stadium. West Catholic was coming off a loss
to rival Roman Catholic while Bonner was riding the momentum of an opening
season win against neighborhood foe Upper Darby. West Catholic played with much
speed and much quickness. Quarterback Anthony Reid had an excellent game,
running and passing. He finished with 26 yards rushing on only 4 carries and his
passing numbers were 9 for 11 for 98 yards, including a touchdown pass.
Monsignor Bonner’s offense failed to really establish itself early in the game.
A fumble and interception on their first two possessions really dug themselves
into a hole. Although the Friars’ defense, led by senior Marcus Collins
(9 tackles), who had a few nice plays at linebacker, fought strong and held
their own against a very explosive Burrs team, WC got on the board first with
2:57 left in the first quarter, thanks to a 2 yard run by Soph. David
Williams. Bonner’s WR/DB Anthony Jackson was able to block the
attempted PAT to keep West’s lead 6-0. Bonner looked poised to create a long,
sustainable drive but after two first downs they were forced to punt at the
start of the 2nd quarter. An offensive pass interference call on West Catholic’s
Jaelen Strong-Rankin forced the Burrs to punt from inside the end zone on
WC’s following drive. A big catch by WR James Okike over three Burrs
defenders put the Friars offense in great position. A few plays later and
John McGilligan took a reverse to the end zone for the 11 yard run. The
extra point was blocked and the score was tied, 6-6 with 5:58 remaining. West
Catholic’s RB Joshua Mathis had a nifty 21 yard touchdown run with 1:51
remaining in the 2nd quarter. Joshua finished with 98 yards rushing on 12
carries. Blaize Schieler’s extra point was good to give the Burrs the
13-6 lead. The 2nd half began with West Catholic receiving, and Bonner’s defense
really played well behind seniors Dan Lutes and Andrew Hackett,
who both made remarkable plays on the Burrs first two second half possessions
and throughout the game. Bonner’s Dan Dougherty continued to look
impressive throughout, as a cornerback he always was around the ball and ended
with seven tackles. WC’s Jim Lynch, Kevin Burns, and Kris Padgett
played exceptional on the defensive end. They seemed to live in the Friars
backfield, disrupting plays. Late in the 3rd quarter, WC with the ball, the wide
receiver/reverse pass was called at the 51 yard line. Strong-Rankin made a great
delivery to Senior WR Quran Kent for the score. Kent finished with 90
yards receiving on only 3 catches. Reid threw a touchdown in the 4th to
Anthony McDonnaugh to give West the commanding 27-6 lead. It ended that way
as West Catholic improved for 1-1 on the season and Monsignor Bonner fell to
1-1.
Player of the Game: West Catholic’s Anthony Reid
Anthony played a superb game both running and passing. His passes
were on point and he was able to buy time with his feet for most of the game.
SEPT. 3
NON-LEAGUE
Bonner 20, U. Darby 9
“Hope comes alive on Friday nights” . . . The singular most
spectacular high school sporting event is high school football. And what better
way to kick off Labor Day weekend than with the first glimpse of high school
football. The annual battle for Upper Darby took place on this gorgeous, late
summer evening at Memorial Field. The Monsignor Bonner Friars took on the Upper
Darby Royals to kick off this fresh season for both squads. Monsignor Bonner
received the ball first, and Senior Jamie Juisti returned the opening
kickoff 23 yards. Bonner and Upper Darby failed to register a first down on
their respective first possessions. Senior QB Sean Quarterman threw his
first completion in the team's 2nd possession, a 15 yard strike to junior WR
John McGilligan. Bonner’s drive was halted shortly after that and they were
forced to punt. At the 7:39 spot in the 1st quarter Bonner’s defense forced a
fumble at the 25 yard line. After two rushes by juniors John Pontarelli
and Ismir Gibson and an eight yard completion to senior WR James Okike,
Quarterman was able to put the Friars on the board with a 1 yard run. The
Royals, who were plagued with drop passes and good defense from the Friars,
continued to be irrelevant on offense to start the 2nd quarter. The front seven
for the Friars led by DE's Andrew Hackett and Brendon Garrison
and DT/OL Tyler Ramirez and Dan Lutes, plus LB’s Vince Dalterio,
Jim Murphy, and Marcus Collins, really created problems for the
Royals all night. They had a quick series and punted the ball back to the
Friars. Quarterman, after a rough start throwing the ball, connected on a 23
yard completion with senior WR/DB Anthony Jackson and then later for an
11 yard completion to WR/DB/KR/PR Juisti to the Friars 23 yard line. As the
Friars faced a 3rd and 7 Quarterman was unable to control the ball as the Royals
defense recovered the ball at midfield. The Royals looked to have something
going as McGee connected with a receiver who had open space but senior captain
Dan Dougherty made a great diving tackle to save what looked like a big
play in the making. The Friars then got the ball back with 3:46 remaining in
the 2nd quarter and Quarterman showed why he can take this team to wherever he
is willing to take them. He unleashed a 23 yard pass to Okike, and then rifled
an 18 yard pass to McGilligan, and after a 37 yard pass to Jackson was called
back, he answered with a 28 yard pass to McGilligan (3 catches for 61 yards) to
the Friar 17 yard line. Quarterman then used his legs to get to the two yard
line where ultimately he finished with a one yard rush, his second of the game.
K/P Matt Hudash connected on his second PAT of the night and the Friars
took the 14-0 halftime lead. Bonner head coach Tom
Oropeza
took a play right out of
Super Bowl winning head coach Sean Payton’s playbook as the Friars opened up the
second half with an onside kick, which McGilligan recovered. The magic of the
onside kick quickly ended as Quarterman threw his first interception of the year
to an Upper Darby lineman. The Royals worked up a swift scoring drive as
David Lerro caught a pass from Mike McGee in the end zone at the 7:26 mark
in the 3rd. At the start of the fourth quarter, the Friars set to punt, the snap
got away from Hudash and the Royals recovered for the safety to make the score
14-9. Upper Darby seemed to have some momentum going as they got the ball after
the safety. But an intentional grounding call on 2nd down really dampened any
chance of a long, industrious drive and the Royals were strained to punt. Upper
Darby was able to get the ball back with more then 5 minutes remaining the ball
game but Murphy picked off McGee’s pass. Bonner’s offense exhibited another
three and out and were forced to punt when Hudash made a brilliant punt inside
the Royals' 10. Forced to go deep, McGee’s pass was picked off by Dougherty at
Bonner’s 33. After a 27 yard rush by Pontarelli (12 rushes for 53 yards) the
Friars were in business at the 6 yard line. A few plays later and Quarterman
rushed in for his third touchdown of the game. 20-9 Bonner wins.
Player of the Game: Dan Dougherty
Despite a debatable clipping call on a punt return, Dan played a heck
of a game. With an interception and a few remarkable tackles Dan played with the
energy that was needed for the Friars to secure the victory. Being a leader is
something of a rarity and Dan Dougherty defines the word leader in every way
imaginable.