Teamwork, defense key as Welsh takes on Lyons
By JOE LICANDRO and JEFF BALTRUZAK
Sports Writers
The game between Welsh and Lyons on Sunday at 2:00 will be a game of polar opposites.
Welsh, a team composed of experienced veterans, is coming off a 29-6 thrashing of Pasquarilla East. The predominantly inexperienced Lyons team is reeling over their 26-0 loss to Cavanaugh.
Welsh will be led by playmaker Jen Grubb. However, as Coach Casey Bouton points out, the true key to Welsh's success is their teamwork and defense.
Bouton is pleased with his team's effort in practice and says his team is ready for the game on Sunday.
"We've been practicing really hard against each other, and we're hoping our hard work pays off on Sunday. We understand Lyons will be ready for the upset, and we're looking forward to the challenge."
Although Lyons certainly has their work cut out for them, Captain Lisa Thomas believes the first game was a great learning experience especially for the freshmen.
"Although we had a disappointing turnout in our first game, we expect to play better this Sunday," Thomas said.
Although the odds are stacked against Lyons knocking off last year's champion and this year's preeminent favorite Welsh, the game on Sunday could prove to be the biggest upset of the season.
Lewis vs. Pasquerilla East
For the Pyro offense, it could be another tough Sunday at the office. After facing the stifling pass rush of Welsh Family last week, Pasquerilla East faces a confident Lewis Chick defense coming off a shutout. The teams square off at noon Sunday on the McGlinn fields in what might be a bruising defensive brawl for the books.
On the crushing Lewis defense in led by linebacker Becky Ward. Coach Blake Kirkman says the Chicks are "counting on her to be everywhere." Kirkman added that Ward is a superstar on a squad full of talent.
"The defensive line is solid. We have good players in the secondary too," Kirkman said.
Kirkman is pleased with the way his young players have performed so far.
"I'm excited about how they're picking up the offense."
Lewis wide receiver Katie Schlosser isn't surprised that defense is her team's strength.
"[Our defensemen] are very athletic. We had a good defense last year too," she commented.
On offense, Schlosser described the team as "inexperienced at the skill positions."
Schlosser explained that the Chicks are tinkering with their offensive strategy for their game against the Pyros.
"We passed too much last game," she noted. "We've brought in some new plays so we won't be so predictable."
The tough PE defense is seeking to improve against Lewis, after giving up several big plays against Welsh. Defensive lineman Brita McCullough said that practice this week was spent "polishing up the defense and communicating better about what the offense is doing." McCullough explained that the team has responded well despite their loss.
"It's a place to start. We can build on it," she said.
On offense, the Pyros face the challenge of another strong defensive line and linebacker corps. But center Kristin King insisted PE will be ready for the challenge.
"We're studying their defense and making changes. We'll mix it up."
Pangborn vs. Howard
Pangborn and Howard combined for a total of zero points scored in their first games. Although Howard bounced back to score 16 points Thursday, both teams are looking to improve their offenses this weekend. They meet Sunday on the McGlinn fields for bragging rights over the grassy paradise knj5own as South Quad.
With a base of freshman, Pangborn's offense is inexperienced and will need to rely on a veteran defense.
Defensive captain Erin Piroutek said that the Phoxes need "to stick to the fundamentals." She continued on to explain that her team will play "twice as tough" against the Ducks.
The Pangborn defense is centered around its dynamic linebacker duo, Annie Sutera and Libby Cunningham. Piroutek said they will insert more blitzes into the defensive scheme on Sunday. The defense will also rely on the services of superfan "Crazy" Becky Weisenberger.
Captain Jeanne Trelense said Howard will be potent on offense against Pangborn. She commented that strong-armed quarterback Jill Veselik gives the Ducks "big play capability." Trelense explained that the team will continue to "work on the offensive line and try new things on offense."
Emily Borg anchors the Duck Defense. Her strong cornerback play has proved invaluable for Howard.
"[The squad maintains] tight coverage, but we need to work on the defensive line," Trelense said.
All Sports Stories for Friday, September 22, 2000
