Nobody was busier during Saturday's Empire Football League game at the Alex T. Duffy Fairgrounds than the guy operating the scoreboard.

That is, except for the Watertown Red and Black defense, which was helpless in trying to stop the Albany Metro Mallers, who rattled off 27 fourth-quarter points en route to a 39-0 drubbing of the host Red and Black in its first home game of the regular season.

For the second week in a row, Watertown was attacked from the air and couldn't muster a defense to counter it. Albany quarterback Scott Lawson completed 13-of-21 pass attempts for 315 yards and four touchdowns.

With running back George Eason and linebacker Mike Dumaw back in the lineup, Watertown had to feel good about its chances against Albany, which has emerged as the class of EFL.

For three quarters, the Red and Black had the Mallers, who led 12-0 after the third, on their heels.

"I thought we played a great first half of ball," Watertown head coach George Ashcraft said, "but we missed a couple of scoring opportunities."

Albany's high-powered offense struggled to find its rhythm early in the game. Linebackers Kyle Roshia and Dumaw, who finished with 10 and six tackles, respectively, managed to find the Metro Mallers' backfield and apply pressure to Lawson. But Albany converted too many third downs and kept alive drives that Watertown initially had appeared to stop.

The punishing running by Albany backs Sylvester Cooperwood and Jadel Whitfield was effective enough to set up the Mallers' passing attack. Even though Watertown kept the score close, it always seemed that the Mallers could strike at any time. In the final quarter, they did.

"I think it was a case of we would bend, bend, bend and eventually we were going to break," Roshia said. "Sometimes the morale can swing and on defense; it's always the big play that gets us."

Three of Lawson's scoring strikes came in the fourth quarter. Collis Martin (43 yards), John Mulino (20 yards), and Culture Branch (28 yards) were all on the receiving end of touchdown passes. Branch caught two. The Metro Mallers just had too many receivers for Watertown and its struggling secondary to handle.

"We wanted to try and beat them through the air and this year we are just blessed," Albany coach Norman Mann said. "We made some adjustments at halftime but we expected a tough game."

Mann also said he is fortunate for the tools that he has at his disposal. "We will take what you give us," he said, "we are lucky enough to do that."

Watertown's best chances to score were in the first half. The Red and Black failed to take advantage of a 27-yard field goal attempt with just over a minute remaining in the opening quarter. Then, in the second quarter, Ashcraft chose to go for it on a fourth-and-2 from the Albany 7-yard line. The Mallers wrapped up Al Countryman for no gain and still haven't allowed a point in an EFL game this season. Ashcraft said that he didn't want to risk another failed field goal attempt.

"I thought we could get the first down or go for the (field goal)," Ashcraft said. "Nothing seems sure anymore, and it's definitely better for everybody if we go ahead before halftime."

The Red and Black's offense also was plagued by dropped balls and overthrown passes in the first half. No points resulted directly from the team's first half miscues, but they did cost the Red and Black possible scoring chances.

Quarterback Doug Black connected on five passes for 29 yards. He threw just one interception, but, it set up an Albany drive that Whitfield would eventually cap with a 26-yard touchdown run.

Eason, playing for the first time since July 2004, gained 44 yards on 10 carries.

"I'm not down on anybody in particular," Ashcraft said after the game. "It seemed we got tired of getting to the quarterback, and offensively we have to put the ball in the end zone.

"I still think I have a very good team overall. My goal now will be to finish out the regular season 9-1 and go from there."

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Albany Metro Mallers vs. Watertown Red and Black

When, where: 7:30 p.m., today, Alex T. Duffy Fairgrounds.

Records: Watertown (3-2 overall, 3-0 EFL); Albany (5-0).

Last meeting: July 10, 2004, Albany won 18-17.

Notes: The Red and Black is 3-0 in the EFL but have played only one league game. ... Watertown is coming off a tough exhibition loss to Lake City. ... Albany has not allowed a point this season. ... Four Metro Mallers average over seven yards per rush, led by Jadel Whitfield's 10.2 per carry. ... 2004 EFL defensive all-star Lamont Lane is not expected to play, nor is tight end Kenny Anderson for Watertown.

Montreal Titans vs. St. Lawrence Valley Trailblazers

When, where: 7:30 p.m., today, Sandstoner Park, Potsdam.

Records: St. Lawrence Valley (3-3 overall, 3-2 EFL); Montreal (2-1).

By now, the Albany Metro Mallers must be excited about their trip to Watertown today.

The undefeated, unscored upon Mallers boast the Empire Football League's most potent offense, while the Red and Black have displayed susceptibility to the big play.

Albany and Watertown finished in the top four last season. By the end of tonight's game, each may have a good idea where it stands among the EFL's best in 2005.

"We have to play our "A" game," Watertown head coach George Ashcraft said. "Albany is loaded with a team full of athletes''

"Albany runs a wide-open offense. We need to make sure the whole defense is on the same sheet of music," Watertown defensive coach Dave Connell added. "As long as that happens, we'll be effective."

The Red and Black (3-2 overall, 3-0 EFL) have played two exhibition games. While it is important to test players and strategies under game-like conditions, Watertown has discovered that its pass defense is not quite at the level it should be.

Watertown allowed touchdown passes of 51 and 25 yards in a June 18 loss to the Central New York (Syracuse) Express and yielded scoring strikes of 24, 35 and 61 yards last week against the Lake City Stars.

Some starters were missing and it is still early in the season for Watertown. But, Albany has likely taken notice.

The Metro Mallers (5-0) have outscored their opponents 132-0. Watertown fully expects its secondary to be under attack early and often from Albany quarterback Scott Lawson. In three games, Lawson has completed 64 percent of his passes while connecting for 10 touchdowns and just one interception.

"They are definitely going to know Lake City scored their points through the air," safety Al Countryman said. "If we can get pressure on the quarterback, it will help us tremendously."

Countryman, who played safety during his first five seasons with the team, this week volunteered to move to the secondary and provide some much needed experience to the struggling pass defense. If anything, the tough, hard-hitting Red and Black veteran will make Albany's receivers pay a hefty price for a reception.

"I think Countryman can play a big role," Ashcraft said. "If you catch the ball you had better clench your teeth because he can really make you realize you are in a tackle football game."

The Red and Black are hoping Countryman doesn't have to dish out too many punishing blows. Coaches lectured on how important it would be to give the Albany receivers a good shove as soon as they break the line of scrimmage. The objective is to try and mess up the timing of the Metro Mallers offense and force it to rely on other means to be effective.

Even though three Albany running backs average over seven yards per carry, Watertown seems determined not to be beaten through the air, yet again.

"They have relied on the pass," Countryman said. "We want to make them beat us with the running game instead."

Despite its early struggles, Watertown isn't ready to scrap its defensive playbook and rush into panic mode. The feeling around the team is that everything will take care of itself.

"The system is there. We just need people to be at practice, get on the same page and we'll be OK," Connell said.

Stars' receiver Chris Verkey torched the Watertown secondary, catching two passes for 85 yards. Both of Verkey's receptions were touchdowns.

Wide receiver Rod Gleisner reeled in an 82-yard touchdown pass from Doug Black to highlight Watertown's offensive effort. Vince Williams gained 56 yards on 12 carries, including a 4-yard touchdown run. Watertown (3-2, 3-0) failed to convert point-after attempts on both touchdowns it scored.

Black completed five of 19 passing attempts for 103 yards and also allowed an interception.

St. Lawrence Valley Trailblazers vs. Orange County Bulldogs

When, where: 7:30 p.m., today, Smith-Clove Park, Monroe.

2005 records: St. Lawrence Valley 2-1; Orange County 3-0.

Last meeting: Orange County won 56-6, Aug. 16, 2003.

Notes: The Bulldogs were the EFL champions in 2002. ... Orange County defeated Broome County 21-0 in its EFL opener last Saturday. Wide receiver Ricky McVay made six catches for 96 yards and a touchdown in the victory. ... Look for the Trailblazers running game to rebound after being held to 23 yards on 12 carries against Albany. ... Trailblazers linebacker Cheyenne Dashnaw, the EFL's leading tackler last season, recorded 11 tackles last week.

Watertown Red and Black vs. Lake City Stars

When, where: 7:30 p.m., today, Melissa Penfield Park, Plattsburgh.

Records: Watertown 1-1 overall, 1-0 EFL; Plattsburgh 1-0.

Last meeting: Watertown won 10-0, Sept. 11, 2004, EFL playoffs.

Notes: Tonight's game will not count in the EFL standings as both teams were left with an open date when Amsterdam and the Green Mountain Gladiators withdrew from the league. ... Plattsburgh was one of two teams to defeat Watertown in 2004. ... The Red and Black host the Albany Metro Mallers next Saturday in the home opener.

St. Lawrence Valley trailblazers wide receiver Dan Staton floats a spiral about 30 yards into the air. Joe Hutchinson darts up the field, extending to make a one-handed grab, tip-toeing an imaginary sideline. He turns to Staton, both of them flashing smiles. A sign not just of camaraderie, but friendship.

Whether it's on or off the field, it's normal to see Staton and Hutchinson together. Their relationship goes much further than playing the same position on the football field.

"We're really close," Hutchinson said. "We hang out all the time, play video games. He's a cool guy."

"When I'm not in practice, we're hanging out," Staton said.

Staton moved to the area in 2000, living in Ogdensburg after being discharged from military duty in 1998. It had been 10 years since he played football. He met Hutchinson shortly after and they became instant friends.

Hutchinson, an Ogdensburg native, began playing wide receiver with St. Lawrence Valley in 2002 and planned on making an impact.

"I wanted to prove myself," Hutchinson said. "I wanted to play as hard as I could, and I wanted to start."

Trailblazers head coach Mike Britton was pleased with Hutchinson's ability.

"We knew he'd be an impact player for us," Britton said. "Because of his athleticism, and he could catch the ball. He hasn't failed for us as our primary receiver."

Hutchinson followed up on his personal expectations by being the Trailblazers' leading receiver in the inaugural 2002 season.

During the 2003 season, Hutchinson brought home a piece of hardware that made Staton realize how much he missed playing the game he loved.

"He was showing me a plaque from one of his games, and that sparked my interest," Staton said. "I missed it terribly. I wanted to find a place to play. I didn't know about the Trailblazers until I met Joe."

Hutchinson told Staton to play the following season, which was a decision Staton doesn't regret.

"This is what I've always wanted," Staton said. "I'm living my dream right now. I wouldn't have it any other way."

"He's a good all-around athlete," Hutchinson added.

Staton and Hutchinson prepared for the 2004 season together. They played pick-up football at Lincoln Park in Ogdensburg, played catch for hours, and helped each other with conditioning.

"Starting in the spring, I carried my football everywhere we went," Staton said.

Hutchinson was the team's leading receiver for the third straight season in 2004, grabbing 27 passes, seven for touchdowns. He was also named to the Empire Football League All-Northern Division second team.

Staton struggled, however, much to the chagrin of Britton. He started the season as a defensive back, but was switched to receiver at midseason. Unfortunately, Staton couldn't catch the football.

"We couldn't figure out why he wasn't picking up the ball," Britton said.

Staton declined to tell Britton that he needed contacts, afraid that he might lose playing time. "Without contacts, I couldn't see three feet in front of me," Staton said.

After making the optical investment, Britton has seen vast improvements in Staton's playing and blocking ability. Both receivers continue to improve in hopes of solidfying the position as a legitimate threat on the field.

"With them controlling the ball and being effective with the pass, we'll be able to keep the defense off the field," Britton said.

"We've got more talent, and we've got good speed," Hutchinson added. "We just got to get it together."

Staton believes it's possible, as long as his friend lines up with him.

POTSDAM - Perplexed looks covered the faces of the St. Lawrence Valley defense.

By the time Albany wide receiver Collis Martin slashed and juked his way to a 56-yard touchdown before halftime, the Trailblazers stared off in a state of disbelief.

The overmatched Trailblazers fell to the Metro Mallers 46-0 in St. Lawrence Valley's Empire Football League opener at Sandstoner Park on Saturday.

Even though several factors led to Albany's dominance, Trailblazers head coach Mike Britton said the matchup came down to one element.

"Athleticism," Britton said. "They had more speed, more talent, more athleticism than we had on the field. When you look at their roster, they've got guys who've played Arena football, (NCAA) Division I, or at other college or professional levels."

However, on St. Lawrence Valley's opening possession, Massena native Dave Currier connected with Dan Staton for a 40-yard completion, catching the Metro Mallers on their heels. However, the play was called back following an illegal procedure penalty.

"Unfortunately, that one play was the only bullet we had in our gun," Britton said.

After forcing the Trailblazers to punt, Albany's experienced offense stepped up. The Metro Mallers scored a touchdown on every first-half possession. For the game, they marched inside the St. Lawrence Valley 20-yard line on all but one possession.

Martin caught three touchdown passes, and running back Jadel Whitfield rushed for two more to give the Metro Mallers (2-0) a comfortable 34-0 lead at halftime.

Albany starting quarterback Scott Lawson orchestrated shotgun and no-huddle offenses that led to scores. He said an all-around effort attributed to their success.

"Up front, our guys just dominated," Lawson said. "I believe we have the best receivers in the league. But you've got to respect our runners."

Trailblazers defensive back Kenny Campbell said the defense struggled at stopping the Metro Mallers' potent offense.

"A lot of guys went across the middle, safeties are suppose to pick them up, but it's the corner(back)'s job to follow, too," Campbell said. "So I don't know. We just got to work hard next week, especially the secondary."

The St. Lawrence Valley offense couldn't respond either, gaining only 59 total yards in the first half. Currier threw two interceptions and was sacked three times by an Albany defense that hurried the first-year starter for most of the game. Staton also fumbled twice after hauling in receptions that would've given the Trailblazers two first downs.

The sloppy performance on both sides of the ball led Britton to one final solution.

Not many teams in the Empire Football League run an offense like the Albany Metro Mallers.

They utilize the passing game to set up their running attack. A contrasting scheme such as that can place formidable pressure on the St. Lawrence Valley Trailblazers' defensive backfield.

But the Trailblazers' secondary isn't intimidated.

Defensive coordinator Ernie Miller plans on making minor adjustments for today's EFL home opener, but there won't be a change in strategy.

"We made our changes in the preseason," Miller said. "I've thrown a lot at these guys. We've got five coverages now, and that's enough."

St. Lawrence Valley faces a Metro Mallers squad that trounced the Scranton Eagles 49-0 in their first EFL game Saturday.

Albany scored four touchdowns through the air, all thrown by seasoned starting quarterback Scott Lawson. Two touchdowns were thrown to Lawson's favorite target and primary receiver, Macio Clinton. Even though the offense may seem explosive, Trailblazers defensive back Butch Bice wouldn't want another opponent.

"Doesn't matter who it is," Bice said. "We're going to be ready with who and what we have. Coach (Miller) has put in an excellent defense. We've got Kenny (Campbell), Eric (Saunders), me, and Jimmy (Compeau). We should do quite well."

Compeau, a Massena native, had two interceptions in two preseason games, while Saunders collected an interception and a fumble recovery just in the preseason opener against Glove Cities. One person who isn't surprised by the secondary's impact is Miller.

"These guys are good open-field tacklers," Miller said. "They work hard, and I'm proud of that."

Bice is a three-year veteran in the defensive backfield. He said Miller's new strategies are focused on little things that will make the secondary more effective.

"Coach (Miller) tells us to not bite on the pump fake, being at the right place at the right time," Bice said. "We've got the ability and the know-how."

In the past, the Trailblazers struggled with depth and insufficient numbers at certain positions. However, the secondary is at full strength and continues to get stronger.

Cody Thompson, brother of St. Lawrence Valley linebacker Jeremy Thompson, started practicing at safety July 7. He said that practice has gone well enough that he might see some action in the opener.

"I've been getting prepared with all the plays," Thompson said. "I've been watching Compeau a lot, his stance, his eyes and how he watches plays. (Aaron) Barksdale picks things up well. He's a good tackler and catcher. I hope I can step up and play like them."

Thompson played this past season at Cornwall Collegiate Vocational School in Cornwall, Ontario, and led the team in interceptions.

Bice said he recognizes the talent and has seen the progression. Perhaps, teams are unaware that the St. Lawrence Valley secondary could also be a challenging force.

"Our guys are sticking to our game," Bice said. "As long as we execute, I don't think we'll have any problems at all."

Watertown (1-1 overall, 1-0 EFL) got all of the scoring it would need with three rushing touchdowns in the first half. Al Countryman, Eddie Berube and Vince Williams each ran for a score. Williams led the rushing attack as he finished the game with 58 yards on the ground.

Wide receiver Earnie Wash grabbed six receptions for 68 yards.

Defensively, the Red and Black, which features nine former Ottawa players on its team, allowed just a first-quarter field goal while forcing three Ottawa turnovers in the contest.

The Red and Black will host the Albany Metro Mallers at 7:30 p.m. on July 30 at the Alex T. Duffy Fairgrounds. The game scheduled for July 23 has been canceled due to the Amsterdam Zephyrs withdrawing from the EFL. The Red and Black will receive a forfeit victory for the game.

The St. Lawrence Valley Trailblazers were idle Saturday as they were scheduled to take on Amsterdam.