SAUGUS — Teams that win the turnover battle and execute across all three phases of the game typically come out on top. Such was the case Thursday at the Christie Serino Jr. Athletic Sports Complex, where Winthrop (1-4) earned its first win of the season, 40-6, against Saugus (1-3).
The Vikings got off to a strong start when Sean Dolen returned the opening kickoff to the 49-yard line. Operating out of their traditional Wing-T offense, the Vikings marched downfield and finished the drive with an 8-yard touchdown run from quarterback Charlie Ferrara.
On Saugus’ first drive, a punt was blocked by Desmond Cassidy, giving the Vikings excellent field position. Nick Romano scored Winthrop’s second touchdown to make it 13-0.
“We practice special teams, we talk about special teams, we talked about blocking a kick this week, and we got one, so that was good,” said Winthrop head coach Jon Cadigan. “Defensively, we played a hell of a game tonight and, finally, we got going offensively. I thought we had our best practice this year offensively this week. To see that carry over felt good as a coach.”
Romano wasn’t done. With the Sachems driving deep into Winthrop territory at the 13-yard line, he intercepted a pass and returned it more than 90 yards for a 20-0 lead.
“I think Nicky’s been a good player for us. He’s for sure one of our best defensive players and he’s getting better,” Cadigan said. “I think the first couple of games, he was having a little bit of a tougher time because we moved him to running back this year. He was a little bit more winded, but now he’s starting to get his legs underneath him and now he’s the two-way threat that we thought we were going to get into this year.”
From there, it was all Seth Sacco. The senior rushed for 129 yards and three touchdowns, including a 46-yard score, to lead the Vikings.
“Seth is a terrific football player for us. He’s probably one of our best players and our best back. We’ve been waiting for him to break free and break out. We had a great week of practice and I was happy for him, especially because I think it’s been a tough four weeks for all of us, but I think it’s been tough for him because he’s a good player and he hasn’t been getting the touches or yards he’s normally accustomed to.”
For Saugus, despite the loss, there were positives. Sophomore quarterback Eli Fialho connected with Ryan Shea for a 50-yard touchdown pass in the fourth quarter.
“Eli was throwing the ball really well all night. He had time and was making some throws,” said Saugus coach Steve Cummings. “We could have helped him out a bit more as we had a few drops early, but for the most part, he’s been really playing better. His feet are better and he’s delivering the ball on time and he’s making that progression at quarterback.”
Cummings also praised his offensive line and backfield for picking up blocks against a tricky, aggressive defense.
“Pass-pro wise, I thought we did well. They do a good job of bringing different pressures. They’re bringing two or three backers each time,” Cummings said. “I thought our O-line and our backs did a nice job stepping up and protecting to give us a bit more time. We just have to cash in and do a little more with it.”
Winthrop will enter a bye week, while Saugus travels to Salem next Friday.
