by The Elyria Pioneers began their first home game of the season with an onside kick. They were able to retain possession and more fireworks followed shortly after. A double pass play between their quarterback Godbolt and Gilbert. It eventually led to a 47-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Larico Baker. Within the first 10 seconds, the Pioneers would go up 7-0.
Great defense followed to force an early punt from the Princeton Vikings. Later on, though, Princeton only used two plays to even the score. Teno Brown crossed the end zone from six yards out.
Sloppy play from both squads with poor snaps and penalties hurt their chances to break the tie. It was not until right before the end of the first quarter that Antonio Hunter would run back a 65-yard punt return. That put Princeton up 13-7.
The defensive presence was felt by both teams throughout nearly the entire second quarter. But with 3:35 to go in the half, a fourth down catch by Jordan Fitzpatrick for 28 yards led to six points. Quarterback Deangelo Birch delivered it and the Vikings would lead 21-7 on a desperation pass on a failed point after try.
Unfortunately, things continued to unravel for the Pioneers with a lost fumble at the 2:24 mark. Princeton took advantage with another seven on the board with 1:38 left in the half. Elyria converted a series of plays for at least 30 yards in the last 40 seconds but nothing came of it.
To make a furious comeback, Elyria needed both sides of the ball to roll their way. The defense did some work forcing two fumbles. But just when they began to gain momentum they failed to convert on their ensuing drive. With another window of opportunity, Jordan Fitzpatrick would capitalize with his second touchdown. That increased his team’s lead to 35-7 with 5:32 in the third quarter.
Fitzpatrick was not done, though. His imprint was left all over the field, with him adding a third touchdown with 3:29 remaining in the fourth quarter. The offensive firepower was ultimately too much for Elyria with the final score being 41-7. Elyria drops the opener, falling to 0-1, with Princeton nabbing a road win to move to 1-0.
Player Of The Game:
Princeton Vikings- Jordan Fitzpatrick: 3 TD
