by Lakewood, OH – In a rematch of last season’s opener, the Rangers of Lakewood would prevail once again over the John Marshall Lawyers this time by the score of 48-12 from First Federal Lakewood Stadium.
It was a beautiful fall-like evening on the corner of Bunts Road, and Madison Avenue. And the Rangers came to play. Led by first-year head coach Michael Polevacik, his team couldn’t have gotten off to a better start to the season thanks to Senior Alex Symons. After bobbling the kick, Symons weaved through traffic untouched for an 84-yard kickoff return to begin the season for Lakewood. The tough start for the Lawyers continued as their first snap of the season was fumbled, resulting in another quick score. Lukas Quick pounced on the fumble in the end zone to give Lakewood a 14-0 lead 30 seconds into the game.
John Marshall found themselves in a very early hole, but their response was excellent. Quarterback Cason Diilulio led the way for the Lawyers making great throws in tune to an 80-yard touchdown drive. Randell Henry caught a beautiful throw from Diilulio to get the Lawyers back into the game. Diilulio was 5-5 with 55 yards on the drive. Lakewood would respond back with a touchdown drive of their own as Avery Holt did some of everything. The Junior Quarterback made on-time throws and used his legs to score from 2 yards out on a designed run.
The connection between Holt and Symons was on full display all night. But their biggest hookup came on a 57-yard catch and run touchdown. Holt drew in the safety and lofted the ball to Symons whose speed was just too much for anyone else to catch up to. Lakewood would go on to score two more touchdowns to add to their lead before the end of the half. Don Mikuluk punched one in from 3 yards out, and Holt found Chris Byrne in the back of the end zone who tipped toed to stay inbounds on the final play of the half. With a 41-6 lead going into half the Rangers were in complete control.
Symons added his third touchdown of the game in the 3rd quarter from Holt, to add a great start to his senior campaign. He would finish with 114 yards receiving on the night. The Lawyers would add one final late score in the 4th but that would not change the outcome. With the victory, Lakewood starts the season 1-0 and will take on Clearview at home next Friday. Meanwhile, John Marshall would look for their first win against Rocky River on the road.
Players of the Game:
Lakewood Senior Alex Symons – 6 Receptions, 114 Yards, 3 Touchdowns
