LANGHORNE: The cheers of crowds that you’re hearing tonight, from all over the Keystone state, can only mean one thing: It’s time for the high school football playoffs! Of course, the nickname for the playoffs – “The Second Season” – really hits home for the Redskins as this evening sees them playing the Pennridge Rams for the second time this year. And although Neshaminy came up out on top in the first go-around when it comes to playing the same team in the same season John Wayne had it right when he said: “A man deserves a second chance, but keep an eye on him … .”
Then as it was, it only took the ‘Skins a few minutes to find out just how prophetic “The Duke” could be. For after they took the opening kickoff and put up a three-and-out the Rams first possession saw them drive the field for the first points of the night. A little stunned, Neshaminy quickly realized they were in a ballgame and answered with a Mason Jones’ to Oleh Manzyk pass that resulted in a 72-yard touchdown play. Dylan McDonald’s PAT then made it 7-7.
Feeling sassy after the score Neshaminy’s defense forced a Rams punt which Savion Hebron blocked. Looking good the ‘Skins were then back in business at the enemy 31; however, an immediate Langhorne fumble gave the ball right back to the Rams but Perkasie stalling it was time for another punt.
After the exchange Neshaminy then moved the ball sharply on some splashy running by Will Dogba and Hayden Rooney. It was for naught, though, as that ‘Skins drive was stopped by a Rams’ red zone interception. And clearly fired up after the turnover a Pennridge running back soon enough went on an 81-yard touchdown run that had the Red & Blue underwater again, 14-7.
The second-quarter then provided more of the same for Neshaminy as it watched another interception kill a solid drive but fortunately the defense again saved the day as the “D” boys forced Pennridge into a missed field goal effort. Still, the ‘Skins offense remained cold and it only got worse when a Neshaminy punt was blocked. An alert Ram then put the nail all the way in when he scooped up the bounding ball and waltzed into the end zone to give Pennridge a 21-7 halftime lead.
Following the break Pennridge had the first opportunity with the ball but with Jacob Gordon earning his 7th interception of the year it looked as if the sun had finally broken through for Neshaminy. Not the case, though, as Pennridge soon stole another Neshaminy aerial. And once again it was the ‘Skins defense coming through as the ball was quickly back in Redskins’ hands.
With Neshaminy starting on their own 24 yard line they still looked a little bunched up until Jones located Manzyk who, after making an incredible catch, banked a 74-yard touchdown reception and score. McDonald’s toe then trimmed Pennridge’s lead to 21-14 as the third-quarter ended.
Later in the fourth session, and with their hands on the ball, the ‘Skins shook off the rust and showed what they were made of as they cobbled together a drive highlighted by gutsy plays and 4th down conversions. And after closing in on nirvana Jones identified Mike Garlick at the gate as they connected for a five-yard touchdown aerial. McDonald‘s PAT was good but a dead ball foul forced another try which was blocked by the Rams to leave it at a one point 21-20 game.
With the defense playing hero all night they squelched the next Rams’ drive and Neshaminy got the ball back at their 32 yard line with five minutes on the clock. And obviously sensing it was time to make their move the Wilmotmen then capitalized on some nifty running by Dogba, and two Pennridge penalties, to find themselves at the Pennridge 11. From there it was Field General Jones going to the “air express” as he nailed Manzyk for the go-ahead score. Going for two the try didn’t hit the mark to leave Neshaminy with just a 26-21 lead and three minutes on the clock. But despite the time, and needing only one score, the Rams came up a cropper and the five points would prove to be plenty for the Redskin.
Phew – this one was worth the price of admission. And even though it was a nail biter, a win is a win (we’ll take it and we’ll also congratulate Neshaminy’s boys for the terrific comeback victory). While we’re at it a thank you is in order for the Rams and coach Hollenbach for coming down to Heartbreak Ridge and making this game one for the books.
Finally, and to all you fans, we’ll see you on Friday night for the District One quarter-final game which will see a tough and talented Garnet Valley Jaguars club coming to town. Then as we say each week, get here early as Harry’s House is gonna be packed.
Game Captains were #1 Zach Tredway, #7 Will Dogba, #8 Mason Jones and #69 Eddie Parry.
Good night Mrs. B!
