Strong Start

OVFL: JV Lions begin postseason by knocking off the Spears

The junior varsity Cambridge Lions knocked off the Niagara Spears in their first playoff game 31-15.

“We played well and both teams were ready to play right off the start,” said :ions Head Coach Gary Skalos.

Offensively, the Lions continued to be solid.

Quarterback Brayden Hill got the start and led the offense with 161 yards in the air and 39 on the ground.

“He led us really well,” commented Skalos on Hill.

George Monaghan IV led the Lions receivers with 136 yards while fellow teammate and brother Griffin Monaghan added 25 yards.

Running back Alex Salytchev had 65 yards and two touchdowns while Brandon Metz had 53 yards and a major. However,  Metz’s blocking also stood out in the gamel.

“His blocking is great, he takes it so seriously” noted Skalos.

Defensively, the Lions were effective..

“They played really solid defense, and got pressure on the quarterback,” said Skalos.

Linebacker Brandon Ralph led the team with 14 tackles.

Safety-quarterback Mitch Weiler chipped in with 10 tackles, however,  he left the third quarter after sustaining a minor injury.  Weiler returned to action in the fourth quarter.

The special teams unit also played a key role in the victory.

“For Special teams it was our best game, taking care of three onside kicks and our coverage’s were great,” said Skalos. “Everybody was executing well.”

Kicker Nathan McLean was successful on a 27 field goal attempt and added 219 yards on kickoffs (an average of 43.8 yards). Moreover, McLean was successful on four conversion attempts.

Salytchev returned a 67 yard punt for a touchdown score.

The Lions will now face the  Mississagua Warriors in a rematch of their previous meeting this season, where the Lions ruined the Warriors undefeated streak. Last year, the Warriors knocked off the Lions on route to their second championship.

“It’s not easy to beat a team a second time, hopefully it ends differently then last year,” noted Skalos.

The Lions continue to prepare for their upcoming game.

“We’re excited,” said Skalos.  “Hopefully when we take the field we are as prepared as we can be, and the better team is going to win.”

Kick off is scheduled for August 3rd at 3pm.

 

Photo Credit: Lisa Meggs