The Catholic Central Crusaders kicked off their 2024 season with a strong performance against Wellsville, showcasing their trademark strong defense and ability to defend their home turf. Head coach Eric Meek praised the Wellsville team for their scrappiness and improvement under coach Camden Douglas, acknowledging the tough challenge they presented. The Crusaders secured a hard-fought 20-6 victory, extending their home winning streak to seven games.
One of the standout moments of the game came in the third quarter when Jimmy Hernon broke free for a 95-yard touchdown run, swinging the momentum in Central’s favor after a crucial defensive stop. Coach Meek commended his team’s perseverance and grit, highlighting their ability to hold Wellsville to just six points despite their speed and offensive threats.
Hernon was a key player for the Crusaders, finishing with 137 rushing yards and two touchdowns. He opened the scoring with a 2-yard plunge in the first quarter, setting the tone for Central’s offensive performance. Quarterback Matthew Sprochi also made an impact, connecting with Zach Bryan for an 11-yard touchdown pass just before halftime to give the Crusaders a 13-6 lead.
Defensively, Peyton Rauch stood out with a couple of sacks and a fumble recovery, contributing to Central’s strong performance on that side of the ball. Tommy Pergi added 93 total yards, showcasing his versatility and playmaking ability for the Crusaders.
Despite the loss, Wellsville showed signs of improvement and resilience, with coach Douglas expressing pride in his team’s effort and determination. The Tigers put up a strong fight and look forward to bouncing back in their next game against Madonna.
Looking ahead, the Crusaders will hit the road to face Strasburg in their next matchup, aiming to build on their season-opening victory. With a solid start to the season and room for improvement, Central is focused on continuing their success and staying healthy as they progress through the schedule.
In conclusion, the Catholic Central Crusaders’ victory over Wellsville in their season opener was a testament to their strong defense, offensive playmakers, and ability to grind out tough wins. With a solid foundation in place, the team looks poised for another successful season as they strive for continued improvement and success on the gridiron.
