Sunday, August 30, 2009
EFL Post Game Press Coverage August 30
R&B delivers crusher
ANOTHER ROUT: Watertown draws praise from Massena
By MATT CORDOVA
TIMES SPORTSWRITER
SUNDAY, AUGUST 30, 2009
ARTICLE OPTIONS
POTSDAM — A season that was frustrating enough already for the Massena Silver and Black seemed to get even longer Saturday night, thanks to the Watertown Red and Black.
T.J. Williams carried 10 times for 120 yards and a pair of touchdowns at Sandstoner Park as Watertown rolled past Massena 48-0 for an Empire Football League victory.
The Red and Black (7-1) reached the end zone on six of its seven offensive drives, racking up 312 rushing yards. Running back Anthony Noel caught touchdown passes of 16 and 27 yards and also ran for a one-yard score.
Massena (0-7), trailing 21-0, received the ball to start the second half, but, two plays later, as Watertown safety Adam Bossinger flipped into the end zone after a 23-yard interception return for a touchdown, the Silver and Black lost any hope of making it competitive.
"Every play of every game is a challenge," Watertown head coach George Ashcraft said. "It's just we're playing so well together right now."
Opponents are taking notice.
"They're definitely one of the premier teams," Massena coach Jim Compeau said of Watertown. "Especially after seeing what they did to Plattsburgh. Their defense is great, and they have a pretty balanced offense."
Dylan Kirker and Demetric White each paced the Red and Black's second consecutive shutout — and third of the year — with 11 tackles.
Ben Call recorded eight tackles, while Dan Robl added six stops and a fumble recovery to help Watertown remain the league's stingiest defense.
"It's going to take a really solid effort from some team and some kind of breakdown to beat us," Kirker said. "Hopefully it doesn't happen."
Buddy Compeau led the Silver and Black with 85 yards on the ground, but Massena's only significant trip into Watertown territory was on its final possession.
Compeau, the league's third leading rusher, provided the few bright spots for a Massena team that has dropped several close matchups heading into next week's league-wide bye for Labor Day.
Losses of one, two and six points have Massena's players believing their team is on the right track, yet they remain winless.
"We've been close this year and that's big," coach Compeau said. "We're building on things, and hopefully we'll get one this year. We're going into every game thinking we can win. As long as we keep that attitude we'll be good."
The impending two-week break leaves Watertown to prepare for what will likely be the most important game of the regular season. Quebec, which is responsible for the Red and Black's one loss, visits the Fairgrounds on Sept. 12.
Five turnovers during that Aug. 15 matchup foiled Watertown's efforts for a perfect season, and holding on to the ball will likely be the main focus during practice for the next 14 days.
"We know we have to do a better job than we did the first time," Ashcraft said.
Published August 30, 2009 12:22 am - Broome County pulls out 35-34 win in Empire Football League play.
Stars fall in fourth
BINGHAMTON — Following a dominating offensive performance and a 27-14 lead after three quarters, the Plattsburgh North Stars gave up 21 points in the final stanza in a 35-34 loss to Broome County Saturday night.
Plattsburgh had a chance to dodge the loss with a final drive with three minutes remaining, but a bobbled snap on a field goal attempt inside the 20-yard line prevented a chance for the game-winning kick.
The Stars converted on multiple fourth downs to keep the drive alive.
"The offense played pretty well all night, 34 points on the road is pretty good," Plattsburgh head coach Pat Keleher said. "We just fell apart on defense in the fourth quarter."
It was Plattsburgh second-straight loss as the team drops to 6-2 in Empire Football League play and 8-2 overall.
"We have a bye week next weekend and then play Vermont at home the following week," Keleher said. "We've got to right the ship."
Broome County 35, Plattsburgh 34
7 10 10 7 - 34
0 7 7 21 - 35
Saturday, August 29, 2009
For Noel, personal goals don't get in way; North Stars take long road
For Noel, personal goals don't get in way
WILLING TO SHARE: Red & Black's leading rusher just one option
By MATT CORDOVA
TIMES SPORTSWRITER
SATURDAY, AUGUST 29, 2009
ARTICLE OPTIONS
Anthony Noel possesses the type of selfishness that typically spurs an offensive player's achievements, and he's not afraid to admit he wants more carries, more yards, and more touchdowns.
But there's no room this season in the Watertown Red and Black's offensive backfield for any "just give me the damn ball" personalities.
The Washington state native is OK with that, too. It's one of the main reasons the veteran running back has emerged over the past several years as one of the Red and Black's most consistent, most respected performers.
"He took the back seat when he had to," head coach George Ashcraft said. "But when he finally became a starter, he's been one ever since."
Noel's numbers don't reflect those of a back who carries the offensive load with four other runners.
His 553 yards and 7.9 yards per carry are both tops in the Empire Football League, and would likely be even better if the Red and Black wasn't so fortunate to be loaded at the running back position.
Last week T.J. Williams led the way with 123 yards, and Noel, who has been the starter since 2004, is happy to share those touches.
"Since I've been with the team, I've always wanted to have a 1,000-yard season. With four quality backs this year, I'm probably not going to get that many carries," Noel said after Thursday's practice. "It's frustrating sometimes, but we learn to deal with it. As long as we win, that's all that matters. It hasn't hurt us yet."
Noel made championship game appearances with Watertown in 2003, '06 and '07, yet still longs for the championship ring Watertown has been pursuing since 1980.
That quest hit a low point last season when the team finished 3-7. Noel's frustrations were compounded, even though he rushed for a career-high eight touchdowns, as he accepted the quarterback role for several games. He had never before played the po sition.
"If that's not showing leadership, nothing else will," Ashcraft said. "And then he was able to come right back this year as a running back. He's just a versatile ball player, and that's why he's leading the league in rushing."
He's taken full advantage of the carries he does get in becoming the league's most productive runner, highlighted by a 177-yard, three-touchdown outing Aug. 1 at Vermont.
"Coming back this year, I knew I was going to be a running back. I've been here six years now. I wanted to come out and show people I'm a leader on this team," said Noel, who has logged 2,802 yards and 30 touchdowns since 2005. "I've felt more comfortable this year and ready to get out there running the ball hard. Every time I=2 0get it, I want to score."
Published August 29, 2009 12:48 am - Plattsburgh visits Broome County tonight in its longest trip of Empire Football League season.
North Stars take long road
BINGHAMTON — After a tough road loss in Watertown which ended the Plattsburgh North Stars undefeated run, the team takes its longest road trip of the regular season tonight when it faces the Broome Country Dragons in Binghamton.
Plattsburgh (6-1 Empire Football League, 8-1 overall) got its first win and handed the Dragons their first loss of the season in July, as the Stars scored on a punt return, passing and rushing play.
Quarterback Ken Stay completed one touchdown and two interceptions in the game, going just 7-for-20 for 44 yards.
However, Stay has throw eight touchdowns and four picks since that game, and the rushing game has improved since week one with the addition of fullback Kyle Nolan and the development of halfback Zach Blocker, in addition to backs Brandon Keleher and Elija Parks.
"We did a good job running against (Broome County) earlier this year," Plattsburgh head coach Pat Keleher said. "We didn't throw the ball very well but Ken has come a long way since then."
Despite the fact that it faced a very tough defense in Watertown, Plattsburgh will need to be much better running the ball than it was last week.
The Stars totaled just 35 yards on the ground. Brandon Keleher got hurt early in the game and Blocker had to go from his usual change-of-pace position to the primary rusher.
Stay did pile u p 165 yards but Plattsburgh couldn't convert a field-goal attempt or two red zone passes that were overthrown.
Plattsburgh can solidify a home playoff game with a win in Binghamton and can, at worst, garauntee the No. 2 seed if it wins its final three games.
"As far as I'm concerned (Broome County) is a must-win," Keleher said.
North Stars take long road
BINGHAMTON — After a tough road loss in Watertown which ended the Plattsburgh North Stars undefeated run, the team takes its longest road trip of the regular season tonight when it faces the Broome Country Dragons in Binghamton.
Plattsburgh (6-1 Empire Football League, 8-1 overall) got its first win and handed the Dragons their first loss of the season in July, as the Stars scored on a punt return, passing and rushing play.
Quarterback Ken Stay completed one touchdown and two interceptions in the game, going just 7-for-20 for 44 yards.
However, Stay has throw eight touchdowns and four picks since that game, and the rushing game has improved since week one with the addition of fullback Kyle Nolan and the development of halfback Zach Blocker, in addition to backs Brandon Keleher and Elija Parks.
"We did a good job running against (Broome County) earlier this year," Plattsburgh head coach Pat Keleher said. "We didn't throw the ball very well but Ken has come a long way since then."
Despite the fact that it faced a very tough defense in Watertown, Plattsburgh will need to be much better running the ball than it was last week.
The Stars totaled just 35 yards on the ground. Brandon Keleher got hurt early in the game and Blocker had to go from his usual change-of-pace position to the primary rusher.
Stay did pile u p 165 yards but Plattsburgh couldn't convert a field-goal attempt or two red zone passes that were overthrown.
Plattsburgh can solidify a home playoff game with a win in Binghamton and can, at worst, garauntee the No. 2 seed if it wins its final three games.
"As far as I'm concerned (Broome County) is a must-win," Keleher said.
Sunday, August 23, 2009
Dragons beaten on late, long TD pass
Dragons beaten on late, long TD pass
Trailing 21-7 at halftime, the Dragons opened the second half with 17 points but Quebec used a 42-yard touchdown pass with 54 seconds left to pull out the win and improve to 5-1.
"That's tough to swallow after four quarters of fighting," said Tom Manny, head coach of the Dragons, who fell to 3-3.
Quarterback Adam Good finished with 230 yards passing and one touchdown, as well=2 0as three interceptions, according to Dragons statistics. He hit Domonique Henderson with a 38-yard touchdown pass to put the Dragons on the board in the first half.
In the second half, tailback Joe Johnson helped lead the comeback, scoring twice. He finished with 66 yards on 16 carries.
Manny also credited the defense with turning things around after halftime, saying: "They got us back in the game -- getting turnovers, giving the offense field position."
Willie Everett had a fumble recovery and an interception, and Ahmeel Curtain finished with five assists and three solo tackles for the Dragons, who next play Saturday at home against Plattsburgh
Dragons fall to Titans
Adam Good is a Windsor
Tonight they're taking on theQuebec
In the 2nd, coach and QB Geoff Brown completes the throw to Thierry Fontin, who is not touched, and gets up to run some more. All together it's a 45-yard gain, and it would set up this.
The Brown and Fontin connection again, this time for six, it's 7-0Quebec
They're looking to make it three wins in a row, and with plays like this they might be on their way. Good finds Bill Smith for 68-yards, not a TD, he fell at the two.
Two plays later, good nails Dominque Henderson with the fade, sweet grab.
The final is 28-24,Quebec
Tonight they're taking on the
In the 2nd, coach and QB Geoff Brown completes the throw to Thierry Fontin, who is not touched, and gets up to run some more. All together it's a 45-yard gain, and it would set up this.
The Brown and Fontin connection again, this time for six, it's 7-0
They're looking to make it three wins in a row, and with plays like this they might be on their way. Good finds Bill Smith for 68-yards, not a TD, he fell at the two.
Two plays later, good nails Dominque Henderson with the fade, sweet grab.
The final is 28-24,
EFL Post Game Press Release August 23, 2009
R&B deadly efficient
CONVINCING WIN: Watertown hands Plattsburgh
By MATT CORDOVA
TIMES SPORTSWRITER
SUNDAY, AUGUST 23, 2009
JUSTIN SORENSEN / WATERTOWN
JUSTIN SORENSEN / WATERTOWN
One side of the scoreboard at the Alex T. Duffy Fairgrounds remains stuck at zero, and that's not good news for the rest of the Empire Football League.
Playing its third home game of the regular season Saturday in front of a near-capacity crowd, the Watertown Red and Black rode a dominant running attack and impenetrable defense to a 21-0 EFL victory over the Plattsburgh North Stars.
More importantly, the Red and Black (6-1), which hasn't surrendered a point at home, took a giant step toward a first-place, regular-season finish and home-field advantage throughout the playoffs.
Last week's 14-2 loss to Quebec seemed like it happened years ago to head coach George Ashcraft, whose team handl ed previously unbeaten Plattsburgh
"Good teams bounce back and improve after a bad game," he said. "And that's what we did. It was a great team effort."
"I wasn't even getting touched in the backfield," said Williams, who missed two weeks because of a family reunion in Italy
If losing to Quebec exposed any lack of focus, Watertown has surely cured it by now. The defense seemed to know what the North Stars were going to do as soon as the snap was delivered on most plays.
"Our defense is always strong at home," linebacker Mike Dumaw said. "We didn't let them alter what we wanted to do. We knew they like to run, and that they'd have to mix it up with some passes.
"We had a couple of very intense practices this week, and won as a team. (Plattsburgh
The North Stars entered the game having allowed the least amount of points in the league, with the EFL's top passer in Ken Stay, and the top rusher, Brandon Keleher. But they hadn't yet faced a defense like Watertown
"Their linebackers ran free all night, and when that happens it causes problems," Plattsburgh
"We got so caught up in Watertown
They were the only two throws — both to Lester Cole — quarterback Brian Williams completed for Watertown
Cole, who has played most of this year at cornerback, returned to the offensive huddle Saturday. He's built a reputation the past four seasons for hauling in long passes, and his 58-yard grab directly preceded the six-yard scamper Noel completed to give Watertown the 21-0 edge.
The play was just enough to make Plattsburgh
"We showed we can put the ball in the air," T.J. Williams said. "The best running teams can pass the ball, too. Brian Williams showed that tonight. This is definitely a championship-caliber team."
VERMONT 13, MASSENA 7
Despite snagging three interceptions, Massena couldn't overcome the Ice Storm's early scores from Rob Joy and Austin Partain, falling in an EFL game inBurlington , Vt.
Despite snagging three interceptions, Massena couldn't overcome the Ice Storm's early scores from Rob Joy and Austin Partain, falling in an EFL game in
Partain scored on a 24-yard pass f rom Matt Paul, and Joy caught a 16-yard pass for Vermont
Andy Deon punched in a 1-yard run for Massena (0-7).
Sunday, August 16, 2009
North Stars crush Silver and Black
Published August 16, 2009 12:54 am - The Plattsburgh North Stars compiled 422 yards on offense in a 40-6 blowout victory over Massena Saturday night at Plattsburgh High School
North Stars crush Silver and Black
By NICK ST. DENIS
Staff Writer
PLATTSBURGH — The Plattsburgh North Stars compiled 422 yards on offense in a 40-6 blowout victory over Massena Saturday night atPlattsburgh High School
The win, along with last weekend's 40-0 road victory over the Silver and Black, improves the Stars to 6-0 in Empire Football League play and 8-0 overall.
"Well, I can say, it's the first time we've been 8-0 since I've been here,"Plattsburgh
Stars quarterback Ken Stay completed 12 of 22 pass attempts for 211 yards in Saturday's game, including a 60-yard touchdown strike to Kelly Gordon. Stay and Gordon continued to show good chemistry, connecting for 105 yards through the air.
Stay also scored the game's first touchdown on a quarterback keeper.
Brandon Keleher had a big night forPlattsburgh
Fellow halfback Zach Blocker gained 78 rushing yards and scored forPlattsburgh
"We have a real good group of fullbacks between Kyle (Nolan), Elija (Parks) and James Blocker," Keleher said. "Elija made some textbook blocks tonight that set off some big gains."
Zach Blocker and Jordan Keleher brought back a handful of big kickoff and punt returns, as they've been doing all season long.
"Zach and Jordan do such a good job of setting up the offense and demoralizing the other team with field position," Keleher said.
Unfortunately,Plattsburgh
Massena scored its only touchdown on a 49-yard fumble recovery return by Daniel Colbert.
Nolan recorded the game's final points on a 2-yard run and Brandon St. John made the last meaningful play withPlattsburgh
The Stars travel toWatertown
"We're going to go intoWatertown
—
Plattsburgh 40, Massena 6
Massena 0 6 0 0—6
Plattsburgh
Scoring summary
First quarter
P- Stay 3 run (Ryder kick), 5:44.
Second quarter
P- B. Keleher 55 run (PAT no good), 5:42.
P- Stay 60 pass to Gordon (Ryder kick), 10:49.
M- Colbert 49 fumble recovery (PAT no good), 14:02.
Third quarter
P- B. Keleher 3 run (PAT no good), 11:56.
P- Blocker 7 run (Ryder kick), 3:22.
Fourth quarter
P- Nolan 2 run (Ryder kick), 11:58.
Individual statistics
Rushing
Plattsburgh- B. Keleher 11-127 2 TDs, Z. Blocker 12-78 TD, Nolan 4-18 TD, Stay 2-7 TD, Parks 2-15.
Massena- Compeau 8-22, Lamb 2-2, Deon 7-37, Mason 3-(-14), Hirshey 1(-9).
Passing
Plattsburgh- Stay 12-22-211-1-2.
Massena- Mason 6-13-80-0-1.
Receiving
Plattsburgh- B. Keleher 1-14, Parks 1-7, 2-31, Gordon 4-105 TD, Fish 2-39, J. Keleher 2-15.
Massena- Hirshey 2-17, James 2-14, Sinclair 1-8, Compeau 1-42.
North Stars crush Silver and Black
By NICK ST. DENIS
Staff Writer
PLATTSBURGH — The Plattsburgh North Stars compiled 422 yards on offense in a 40-6 blowout victory over Massena Saturday night at
The win, along with last weekend's 40-0 road victory over the Silver and Black, improves the Stars to 6-0 in Empire Football League play and 8-0 overall.
"Well, I can say, it's the first time we've been 8-0 since I've been here,"
Stars quarterback Ken Stay completed 12 of 22 pass attempts for 211 yards in Saturday's game, including a 60-yard touchdown strike to Kelly Gordon. Stay and Gordon continued to show good chemistry, connecting for 105 yards through the air.
Stay also scored the game's first touchdown on a quarterback keeper.
Brandon Keleher had a big night for
Fellow halfback Zach Blocker gained 78 rushing yards and scored for
"We have a real good group of fullbacks between Kyle (Nolan), Elija (Parks) and James Blocker," Keleher said. "Elija made some textbook blocks tonight that set off some big gains."
Zach Blocker and Jordan Keleher brought back a handful of big kickoff and punt returns, as they've been doing all season long.
"Zach and Jordan do such a good job of setting up the offense and demoralizing the other team with field position," Keleher said.
Unfortunately,
Massena scored its only touchdown on a 49-yard fumble recovery return by Daniel Colbert.
Nolan recorded the game's final points on a 2-yard run and Brandon St. John made the last meaningful play with
The Stars travel to
"We're going to go into
—
Massena 0 6 0 0—6
Scoring summary
First quarter
P- Stay 3 run (Ryder kick), 5:44.
Second quarter
P- B. Keleher 55 run (PAT no good), 5:42.
P- Stay 60 pass to Gordon (Ryder kick), 10:49.
M- Colbert 49 fumble recovery (PAT no good), 14:02.
Third quarter
P- B. Keleher 3 run (PAT no good), 11:56.
P- Blocker 7 run (Ryder kick), 3:22.
Fourth quarter
P- Nolan 2 run (Ryder kick), 11:58.
Individual statistics
Rushing
Plattsburgh- B. Keleher 11-127 2 TDs, Z. Blocker 12-78 TD, Nolan 4-18 TD, Stay 2-7 TD, Parks 2-15.
Massena- Compeau 8-22, Lamb 2-2, Deon 7-37, Mason 3-(-14), Hirshey 1(-9).
Passing
Plattsburgh- Stay 12-22-211-1-2.
Massena- Mason 6-13-80-0-1.
Receiving
Plattsburgh- B. Keleher 1-14, Parks 1-7, 2-31, Gordon 4-105 TD, Fish 2-39, J. Keleher 2-15.
Massena- Hirshey 2-17, James 2-14, Sinclair 1-8, Compeau 1-42.
Saturday, August 15, 2009
EFL Pre Game Press Coverage August 15, 2009
Defense does its part: Red and Black's unit creates havoc, forces turnovers
By MATT CORDOVA
TIMES SPORTSWRITER
SATURDAY, AUGUST 15, 2009
ARTICLE OPTIONS
Rushing the ball against the Watertown Red and Black has proven to be a hard enough task. But there haven't been too many opportunities through the air, either.
That's because Anthony Tyrkala and Adam Bossinger have helped the Red and Bl ack's defensive backfield become the Empire Football League's most theft-happy group. Heading into tonight's game at Quebec , the team's fifth, Watertown
"Our front seven have been amazing," said Tyrkala, who leads the league with four picks. "Us d-backs know we're going to get tested."
The fact that Tyrkala has enjoyed the most successful season of any EFL cornerback is likely a surprise even to him.
The Tampa , Fla.
But, competitively, he'd only dabbled in intramural leagues. 2008 marked the first time he ever strapped on a football helmet.
"We were both in the same unit out at Fort Drum
Building comfortable leads has helped, as well. By the time Tyrkala scored last week against Vermont
"When you know what they're going to do, it takes away the guesswork," defensive coordinator Rich Potter said. "The linemen and linebackers are doing a great job against the run, and forcing teams into situations where they have to throw."
If turning the ball over wasn't frustrating enough for opponents, Watertown
The Red and Black has produced a league-best six defensive touchdowns, four by interception. Mike Dumaw and Jake Smith have also scored directly off turnovers for Watertown
"We have been fortunate for that," said Bossinger, a 2003 South Jefferson graduate. "You see the open field, make a couple moves, and you're off."
Tyrkala credited coach Potter and assistant coach Brandon Doherty for his quick transformation from casual observer to game changer. Any advantage an opposing wide receiver may have had over Tyrkala's football youth has disappeared.
"They pulled me aside early and taught me some fundamentals," Tyrkala said. "I knew nothing about football until last year, except for what I saw on TV. I just never had the chance to play before."
Published August 15, 2009 12:03 am - The unbeaten Plattsburgh North Stars host Massena tonight.
Stars look to stay unbeaten
By NICK ST. DENIS
Staff Writer
Stars look to stay unbeaten
By NICK ST. DENIS
Staff Writer
And if last week's 40-0 victory over Massena was any indictation of what is to come tonight when the Stars host the winless Silver and Black at 7:30 at Plattsburgh High School, that number will likely be seven.
However, head coach Pat Keleher isn't about to let his team take the Empire Football League matchup lightly.
"We're approaching everything the same way — Massena is a better team than the score indicated," Keleher said. "We played very well in that game, but they have very good potential. I do not want our guys in any way thinking this game is in the bag. It could very well come down to a dog fight."
Quarterback Ken Stay fell into a groove last weekend, tossing three touchdown scores, no interceptions and connecting on 12-of-19 passes for 172 yards. The first-year signal caller had made a habit of starting off slow and getting better later in the in the team's first six games, but that was not the case last Saturday.
Keleher expects less early-game rust and better play out of the gate from Stay as he continues to get comfortable with the offense.
"He understands our offense now and (offensive coordinator) Scott (Aguglia) has done a great job bringing him along," Keleher said. "The other half of it is playing experience. The game is slowing down for him."
Kyle20Nolan's return to the team, along with Elija Parks, gives
Defensively, Kyle Babbie has played more of a linebacker role instead of his prior spot at defensive end. Babbie, however, still moves up to the line in four down linemen sets and is part of a linebacker group that can rush and play coverage.
The defensive blend Keleher has put together demands chemistry and selflessness, both of which the Stars have seemed to have in its front seven and eight.
"The D-line is doing a good job stalling up front," Keleher said. "They're very unselfish, not worrying about sacks." He added that quarterback pressure has still been a good as ever despite fewer sacks than a majority of EFL teams.
The Stars' success has gained them gained national attention — they're in the top 25 in all three major semi-pro football national polls. This week
A win tonight would garauntee
"My message to the team is still one game at a time," Keleher said. "But I'm very pleased about where we're at right now."
Sunday, August 09, 2009
EFL Post Game Coverage August 8, 2009
Red & Black follows formula to home rout
By MATT CORDOVA
TIMES SPORTSWRITER
SUNDAY, AUGUST 9, 2009
The Watertown Red and Black is tearing through this 2009 football season by embracing one of life's most practical concepts. It's sticking with what works.
The Red and Black put together another potent rushing performance Saturday night at the Alex T. Duffy Fairgrounds, racking up 346 yards en route to a 43-0 Empire Football League victory over the Vermont Ice Storm.
Anthony Noel again led all runners with 138 yards, highlighted by a 58-yard touchdown jaunt in the second quarter.
But the dominant offensive line isn't partial to just Noel. Joe Brennan finished with 90 yards, and quarterback Bria n Williams carried six times for 49 and a score.
Williams completed just one pass — an 18-yard touchdown connection to Nate Bryant — as Watertown
But Watertown
"We're not going to try to fix something that's not broke," head coach George Ashcraft said of Watertown
And why should they? Watertown
Brennan broke free for a 24-yard gain, while Williams's first rush covered 20 and Noel's 37. Sixteen of the Red and Black's first 17 plays were handoffs, and Ernie Miller and Williams provided the first two Watertown
"The O-line did the job," said Noel, who had 177 yards last week. "Without them nobody runs anywhere. And we've got four quality backs that we can utilize."
The defensive unit has proved pretty dependable, too, having scored a touchdown in each game this season.
But he was confident he'd have another chance for a big play, and a few minutes later, he out-muscled Vermont
Tyrkala said playing against the Ice Storm (1-4) last week made it easy to make adjustments.
"Having them two weeks in a row, we knew they'd want to run a lot of outs and curl routes," he said. "We decided to go man-to-man this week, after we played them mostly zone last time. We know we have a great D-line, and that always makes a QB hesitate and make mistakes."
And mistakes were too common an occurrence for Vermont
Troy Canada , just before halftime, dropped a high Mike Dumaw punt, allowing Jake Smith to pounce on it for Watertown Watertown
"They didn't do anything unexpected," first-year Vermont
Dylan K irker and Dustin Houppert each contributed five tackles, while Garrett Kline added four and a sack.
Ashcraft said the team's efforts in preparations for each game is the main reason for the undefeated start to the season.
"We have five coaches here putting in hours and hours of work on our game plans," Ashcraft said. "And it's working."
A 61-yard touchdown pass from Ken Stay to Matt St. Clair highlighted Plattsburgh 's shutout triumph over the Silver and Black at Sandstoner Park in Potsdam
Kyle Nolan, Brandon Kelleher, Kris Fish, Kelly Gordon and Elija Parks all scored short-yardage touchdowns for the North Stars (4-0).
Ryan Mason completed only three passes for 32 yards, while Andy Deon led the rushing attack with 47 yards on 13 carries for Massena (0-5).
Stay leads unbeaten Stars
August 09, 2009 03:23 am
MASSENA — The Plattsburgh North Stars focused on the passing game during their bye week, and it showed when they returned to action Saturday.
Quarterback Ken Stay tossed three touchdown passes — including a 62-yard score — to help the Stars shut out the Massena Silver and Black 40-0 in an Empire Football League game.
The Stars improved to 4-0 in league play.
Stay finished 10-for-18 for 151 yards and no interceptions.
"One of the things we did during the bye week was work hard on the passing game, letting Ken see the field,"=2 0Stars coach Pat Keleher said. "He's really had two good (games) in a row now. He's starting to understand the offense. The game's slowing down for him; he's starting to see the field. He played very well tonight."
The Stars' offense was kickstarted by the special teams, specifically Zach Blocker's kick returns.
"He set us in their territory a couple times," Keleher said. "He had a 50-yard opening return to start the game. That put us inside their 30, and bam, three plays and we're up 7-0."
Blocker totaled 137 return yards and added 22 rushing yards.
Stay connected with Matt St. Clair for a 62-yard touchdown to make it 14-0 and found Kelly Gordon for a 6-yard score before the end of the first quarter.
The Stars went into halftime ahead 27-0.
St. Clair finished with a team-high 75 receiving yards, and Gordon totaled three catches for 27 yards. Chris Fish had a 9-yard touchdown reception.
Brandon Keleher ledPlattsburgh
The Silver and Black's best chance to get on the board came late in the game.
"They had a first-and-goal from the six, and we held," Pat Keleher said. "They didn't gain any yards. They went 0-for-4 from the six. That was really the only time they threatened.
"I think we're very solid up front defensively, and that allows what I believe is a very talented group of linebackers to run free, make plays. The secondary was solid (Saturday). They didn't give up any home-run balls."
Massena, which visitsPlattsburgh
Plattsburgh 40, Massena 0
Plattsburgh
Massena 0 0 0 0—0
Scoring summary
First Quarter
P- B. Keleher 5 run (Fish kick).
P- Stay 62 pass to St. Clair (Fish kick).
P- Stay 6 pass to Gordon (kick failed).
Second quarter
P- Stay 9 pass to Fish (Fish kick).
Third quarter
P- Nolan 23 run (Fish kick).
Fourth quarter
P- Parks 6 run (kick failed).
Individual Statistics
Rushing
P- B. Keleher 12-101, TD; Nolan 3-24, TD; Z. Blocker 5-22; Parks 3-19, TD; J. Blocker 1-4. Totals: 24-170, 3 TDs.
Receiving
P- St. Clair 2-75, TD; Gordon 3-27, TD; B. Keleher 1-16; Fish 1-9, TD; Talley 1-9; J. Keleher 1-8; Z. Blocker 1-7. Totals: 10-151, 3 TDs.
Passing
P- Stay 10-18-151-3-0.
MASSENA — The Plattsburgh North Stars focused on the passing game during their bye week, and it showed when they returned to action Saturday.
Quarterback Ken Stay tossed three touchdown passes — including a 62-yard score — to help the Stars shut out the Massena Silver and Black 40-0 in an Empire Football League game.
The Stars improved to 4-0 in league play.
Stay finished 10-for-18 for 151 yards and no interceptions.
"One of the things we did during the bye week was work hard on the passing game, letting Ken see the field,"=2 0Stars coach Pat Keleher said. "He's really had two good (games) in a row now. He's starting to understand the offense. The game's slowing down for him; he's starting to see the field. He played very well tonight."
The Stars' offense was kickstarted by the special teams, specifically Zach Blocker's kick returns.
"He set us in their territory a couple times," Keleher said. "He had a 50-yard opening return to start the game. That put us inside their 30, and bam, three plays and we're up 7-0."
Blocker totaled 137 return yards and added 22 rushing yards.
Stay connected with Matt St. Clair for a 62-yard touchdown to make it 14-0 and found Kelly Gordon for a 6-yard score before the end of the first quarter.
The Stars went into halftime ahead 27-0.
St. Clair finished with a team-high 75 receiving yards, and Gordon totaled three catches for 27 yards. Chris Fish had a 9-yard touchdown reception.
Brandon Keleher led
The Silver and Black's best chance to get on the board came late in the game.
"They had a first-and-goal from the six, and we held," Pat Keleher said. "They didn't gain any yards. They went 0-for-4 from the six. That was really the only time they threatened.
"I think we're very solid up front defensively, and that allows what I believe is a very talented group of linebackers to run free, make plays. The secondary was solid (Saturday). They didn't give up any home-run balls."
Massena, which visits
Massena 0 0 0 0—0
Scoring summary
First Quarter
P- B. Keleher 5 run (Fish kick).
P- Stay 62 pass to St. Clair (Fish kick).
P- Stay 6 pass to Gordon (kick failed).
Second quarter
P- Stay 9 pass to Fish (Fish kick).
Third quarter
P- Nolan 23 run (Fish kick).
Fourth quarter
P- Parks 6 run (kick failed).
Individual Statistics
Rushing
P- B. Keleher 12-101, TD; Nolan 3-24, TD; Z. Blocker 5-22; Parks 3-19, TD; J. Blocker 1-4. Totals: 24-170, 3 TDs.
Receiving
P- St. Clair 2-75, TD; Gordon 3-27, TD; B. Keleher 1-16; Fish 1-9, TD; Talley 1-9; J. Keleher 1-8; Z. Blocker 1-7. Totals: 10-151, 3 TDs.
Passing
P- Stay 10-18-151-3-0.
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Saturday, August 08, 2009
North Stars face win-starved Massena
Published August 07, 2009 11:22 pm - The Plattsburgh North Stars take their 3-0 record on the road against the winless Massena Silver and Black today.
North Stars face win-starved Massena
MASSENA — After a 3-0 start to the Empire Football Leauge season (5-0 overall) and a bye week to work out whatever kinks they still have, the Plattsburgh North Stars return to the field Saturday in Massena to take on the Silver and Black.
WhilePlattsburgh
Massena dropped close games toBinghamton and Vermont , losing 14-13 and 14-12, respectively, following a season-opening blowout defeat to=2 0Watertown
The Silver and Black lost toQuebec , 20-12, last week while Plattsburgh
The Stars look to first-year quarterback Ken Stay to continue directing an offense that has produced 73 points in three league games, second in the EFL behindWatertown
Stay's main target through the air has been Kelly Gordon. The two have connected for 132 yards and four touchdowns.
Plattsburgh Elija Parks
Good penetration from the inside of the defensive line and steady pressure outside has madePlattsburgh
BJ Godfrey leads the team in tackles with 21, and Jamil McCray already has an interception for a touchdown.
The secondary has combined for seven interceptions in league play as Joey Painter, Matt St. Clair and Brandon St. John have two apiece.
Plattsburgh
North Stars face win-starved Massena
MASSENA — After a 3-0 start to the Empire Football Leauge season (5-0 overall) and a bye week to work out whatever kinks they still have, the Plattsburgh North Stars return to the field Saturday in Massena to take on the Silver and Black.
While
Massena dropped close games to
The Silver and Black lost to
The Stars look to first-year quarterback Ken Stay to continue directing an offense that has produced 73 points in three league games, second in the EFL behind
Stay's main target through the air has been Kelly Gordon. The two have connected for 132 yards and four touchdowns.
Good penetration from the inside of the defensive line and steady pressure outside has made
BJ Godfrey leads the team in tackles with 21, and Jamil McCray already has an interception for a touchdown.
The secondary has combined for seven interceptions in league play as Joey Painter, Matt St. Clair and Brandon St. John have two apiece.
Sunday, August 02, 2009
'Poor Man's Joe Namath' Reigned in Minor League Football (AFA Hall of Fame Class of 1982)
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