Photo by Kelly Petrin _ Catholic’s Alex Osborne fights his way to a 64-yard touchdown against Christian Heritage in the Rams’ 6-0 win, Thursday.
The Catholic win streak continued Thursday night by the slimmest of margins. Catholic upended Christian Heritage 6-0 in a slug-fest, providing the Rams their 23rd consecutive victory.
The contest featured two solid middle school programs enjoying great seasons. Both teams were undefeated entering the game. While Catholic (6-0) out-gained Heritage by a wide margin, the Rams managed but one score despite five trips inside the red zone.
The Catholic defense, however, was dominating – – holding Heritage to negative yardage.
The lone score of the contest was a 64-yard scamper by versatile running back Alex Osborne. Osborne was the workhorse on offense, picking up over 150 yards rushing.
C.J. Petrin completed two key long passes to receiver River Stump. Catholic did enough offensively to win the game, but Heritage made the Rams struggle once inside the 10 yard line – – staging several goal line stands.
Not to be outdone, Catholic’s defense put on quite a show itself. Catholic’s defense was spectacular, allowing Heritage few positive yardage plays.
Bennett Brinson and Christian Robinson each had an interception. Maverick Tucker controlled the middle, while Boston Eberly recorded multiple sacks.
Defensive ends Tucker Berry and Ben Bambrey precluded Heritage from utilizing their prolific outside running game, assisted by corners Eric Lindsey and Charlie Menham.
Defensive coach Billy Dearing was especially complimentary of linebackers Andy McGann and Landon Cooling.
“Those two had difficult assignments, and they played lights out, shutting Heritage down,” Coach Billy Dearing said.
Following the game Catholic’s offensive coach Bucky Dearing commented “that is what football is about, digging deep and going all out – – what a great game. Both teams can be proud of the effort displayed this evening.”
Catholic has little time to rest as they travel to Dayton next Monday evening to take on Dayton City School in a 6pm contest.
_ L.D. Scott
