By Matthew Saur
It was the game that many of the Pioneers had circled on the calendar; Homecoming against the East Stroudsburg Warriors. The stands were full of alumni and current students who watched as Post won 28-17, and moved a step closer to advancing to the playoffs.
The Warriors (1-6) attempted to crash the party, scoring first on a touchdown rush from Kendrick Williams to give themselves the early lead. But the Pioneers would strike right back on the next drive when Erik Anderwkavich connected to his favorite target Darnell Williams for the 19-yard touchdown. The Pioneers point after was blocked leaving the score 7-6.
The Pioneers (5-2) took the next quarter when once again Anderwkavich found Williams, this time for an 8-yard strike. The extra point was missed again this time sailing wide, yet the Pioneers went into the half leading 12-7.
Coming out the half, East Stroudsburg took an early lead in the third quarter, when Warriors quarterback Matt Marshall found an open Dusty Reed in the end zone for a 21-yard touchdown. The Pioneers trailed 14-12, but kicker Keith Hadnagy would kick a 39-yard field goal moments later to reclaim the lead.
In the fourth quarter, with Post up by one Anderwkavich gave his team some breathing room when he found Grayson Laurino open for a 9-yard touchdown that increased the lead to 22-14. The Warriors tried to strike back on the next possession, but settled for a field goal.
After a quick three-and-out possession by the Pioneers, East Stroudsburg looked to erase the five point deficit but Post defensive lineman Lou Scala had other ideas intercepting a pass from Marshall. Scala also had 11 tackles on the day.
As quick as the Pioneers got the ball, they gave it right back when Anderwkavich was picked. The Warriors attempted one last drive down the field, but it ended with freshman defensive back Donovan Edwards intercepting the ball and running it back to ice the Pioneers victory.
The defense has been steady all season for the Pioneers, and once again was the key to the game. Not only did the defense intercept two passes in the Homecoming game, but last week’s PSAC East Defensive Player of the Week Ronnie Modik recorded a team high 17 tackles along with a forced fumble. Abrom Shepard recorded two sacks, while Xavier Brown recorded one of his own.
The offensive stars of the game were Darnell Williams, who had 104 yards and a pair of touchdowns, and Erik Anderwkavich, who threw for 205 yards and three touchdowns. Anderwkavich also led the team in rushing with 59 yards.
The Pioneers only have one more home game this season at Hickox Field, but will be on the road next Saturday visiting the Kutztown Bears in Pennsylvania. Coverage on 88.1 FM and wcwpsports.com begins at 5:30, with kick off slated at 6:05 pm.
Be First to Comment