LYNN — For the second year in a row, this one came with late-game theatrics.
With fan-made signs, beanies, and blankets present at Manning Field, the Lynn Classical and Lynn English powderpuff football teams squared off Sunday afternoon.
After four tough quarters in the cold, the Lady Rams escaped with a 19-12 victory against the Lady Bulldogs. Classical has won the last four years.
“It’s all about being part of a team,” said Classical coach Rod Valrie. “They all gained a lot and learned a lot. I’m glad we were able to get a ‘W’ today and finish strong.”
On the other side, English coach Madison Molea was happy with her team’s performance. There were 23 English players, while 59 were listed on Classical’s roster.
“I think everyone had a lot of fun today. We had our lowest numbers . . . so the 23 players playing for us played hard.” Molea said. “It was a good game — back and forth.”
After Classical’s Bridget Toomey performed the national anthem with her electric guitar, the action was underway. Azriella Jorge of the Lady Rams scored the game’s first touchdown when she bolted 55 yards down the right sideline. McKenna Duncan’s extra-point attempt was good (7-0).
Jorge raced for another touchdown in the second quarter to put Classical ahead 13-0. English cross country speedster Maddy McHale rushed for a solid gain toward the tail-end of the half, but the Lady Bulldogs couldn’t squeak one in before the break.
During the second half, English found an advantage through the air. Dayana Hios Edwards connected with Jayleen Novas-Rivera for two fourth-quarter touchdowns, but Bianca Christalin’s rushing score had the Lady Rams ahead 19-12.
“We went into the locker room and drew up a whole new formation on the board . . . their passing game in the second half definitely carried us,” Molea said. “I wish the outcome was different, but as long as they had fun and played hard, that’s all that matters.”
After a pivotal fourth-down stop, English had a chance to drive downfield and tie the game with 20 seconds remaining in the fourth. But time ran out on the Lady Bulldogs.
Suri Reyes, Aysia Olaes, and Brooke Braswell made big plays for Classical. Maria Perry and Catherine Bushway impressed for English.
“Azriella Jorge and Bianca: I call them Flash and Dash,” Valrie said, “once they get to the outside, it’s tough to catch them.”
Players shook hands after the action and Classical received its trophy. Next up for the schools is Thursday’s Thanksgiving football game slated for 10 a.m at Manning Field.
