LYNN — The Tech football team hasn’t played its best as of late.
After Keefe Tech ended the Tigers’ postseason run in the Division 8 North semifinal, Tech lost its second consecutive game in a crosstown battle with St. Mary’s two weeks ago.
The Tigers (6-4) are hoping to snap their losing streak with a win over KIPP Academy Wednesday (4) at Manning Field. A CAC Small title is also at stake.
“This game is more than a Thanksgiving game,” Tech coach James Runner said. “Things didn’t go the right way. I don’t make excuses when things don’t go our way. We get beat, we get beat. Preparation is key and we’re not preparing to fail. I hope people are ready to see a football game because we’ll come ready to play.”
Tech won last year’s battle with KIPP, 24-8. But the Tigers know KIPP’s a much different team with another year of experience under its belt. KIPP’s offense has no shortage of athleticism with quarterback Piero Canales calling signals, running backs Daniel Oluwasuyi and Dave Filias moving the chains and Taj King guiding the receivers.
“We gave up a couple points the past couple games that we shouldn’t have given up,” Runner said. “Adjustments had to be made due to personnel. I think we’ve done well against the pass. I think we’ll be ready to go defensively. We look forward to playing against a fast offense.”
Linebackers Devin Lewis and Dominic Giordano anchor Tech’s defense. Jermanny Guerrero leads the defensive line and Miguel Soto carries the secondary.
“I’m proud of how Miguel has come around physically,” Runner said. “He’s put on some weight and he’s been a consistent threat for us. Miguel’s looking to play college ball. I’ve talked to him about his recruiting process.”
Offensively, it’s been a struggle as of late. With leading rusher Haidar Bdaiwi nursing an injury, the Tigers have been forced to turn elsewhere. Gabriel Perez has done his part with Guy Morgan and Carlos Mateo.
“Gabriel’s been an explosive running back for us all year,” Runner said. “We’re going to bring our running game no matter what. Gabriel’s been a firecracker for us. When he hits the hole, he’s hard to stop. We’ve always been a two-back tandem at Tech. Haidar runs the ball hard and Gabriel will make you miss.”
Runner hopes that Bdaiwi will be ready to roll Wednesday.
“Losing Haidar is big,” Runner said. “He’s the glue of our team. When you don’t have all your guns going into a war, you try to prepare the best you can. He’s a big part of what we do, not only on the field but also as a leader.”
Runner understands what Thanksgiving rivalries in Lynn are all about.
“I played at Classical,” Runner said. “Having that game at the end of the year is always about bragging rights. That’s something I try to teach my kids. No matter what, everyone’s record is 0-0 on Thanksgiving.
“Having a Thanksgiving rivalry with another Lynn team is big. It makes it easier for a lot of alumni to come out to the game. Austin Prep was a different tradition. We have a trophy playing against KIPP and it’s great for both teams.”
