Ravens Clawed

OVFL: Lions win tight game to knock off pesky Ravens

The Varsity Cambridge Lions defeated the Essex Ravens 23-22 in a close game.

With the win, the Lions move to 4-1 on the season.

“It was a big win for us,” said Lions head coach Anthony Maggiacomo.  “We played our best game of the year, we finally started out well, and maintained it all game.”

On offense, the Lions were effective.

“We controlled the clock, we led in possession,” said Maggiacomo.  “That helped us a lot.”

The Lions had a notable performance from quarterback James Roberts, with 154 passing yards and a passing touchdown. Roberts also added 19 rushing yards and a rushing touchdown.

Lions leading rusher Tyler Woods had a strong performance, racking up 117 yards.

Young Lions made major contributions on the day as rookie wide receivers Brad Vince and Steve Warner bursted onto the scene with 77 and 44 yards respectively, with Warner hauling in a touchdown.

On defense, the Lions had a strong performance from linebacker Drew Walden.  He led the team in combined tackles with 13. In addition, linebacker Robin Petrie added eight tackles.

“They were all over the field making plays,” noted Maggiacomo.  “These guys stepped up.”

In the backfield, defensive back Ashton Pilkey hauled in an interception.

Also, the Lions special teams’ unit was successful.

“Our returning was the best it’s been all year; especially on punt returns,” said Maggiacomo.

Overall, the Lions played a great game and were able to hold on to the win.

Next week, the Lions will host the Newmarket Bucs.

“Now we have to focus and move forward,” said Maggiacomo.

Kickoff is scheduled for June 28^th at 8pm.