Championship bound

OFC:  Stallions win third consecutive conference title, set up showdown against Hurricanes for league championship

The Huronia Stallions Varsity Football team defeated the Peterborough Wolverines 35-13 to advance to their third consecutive Ontario Football Conference Championship game.

The Stallions surged ahead early with a 14-3 edge on the strength of an Adam Zussino touchdown run and touchdown pass to wide receiver Dan Vandervoort.

The Stallions then beautifully executed a fake field goal where Brandon Johnston took a pitch and scampered for a 28 yard touchdown score.

Peterborough responded with a late touchdown drive to keep the game a close 21-10 score at halftime.

In the second half, Peterborough managed to close the gap to 21-13.  However, that would be the end of their offensive success.

With the game hanging in the balance, Linebacker Ryan Gallagher broke the game open with a 58 yard interception return for a touchdown.  Zussino connected with Vandervoort for a second touchdown to round out the scoring.

The Stallions defence was stellar in the second half with a group effort punctuated by two bone crushing hits by safety Brandon Johnston in the final minute of play.  Johnston had 9 total tackles including 4 on special teams.

Ryan Gallagher led the defence in tackles with 7 solos and 5 assists.  Defensive back John Stylianou had a strong game with 7 tackles, 2 assists and a fumble recovery.  The Stallions defensive line contributed four key quarterback sacks recorded by Matt Telford (2), Brett Ferrari and Hayden Hughes.

On offense, tailback John Shields was a workhorse with 115 tough yards on 20 carries.  Quarterback Adam Zussino had a great game scrambling for 56 yards on 5 carries and throwing for 164 yards.

The Stallions will take on the Hamilton Hurricanes this Saturday at 4:30 PM at Nelson Stadium in Burlington in the OFC Championship Game.