In what turned out to be a defensive struggle of epic proportions, the 11-year-old Hicksville Crusaders and the Baldwin Bombers battled for 48 minutes to a scoreless tie. The first quarter was controlled by the Bombers offense as they took the ball to the Crusaders’ 27 yard line. Hicksville’s aggressive play caused a Bomber fumble giving the ball to the Crusaders as Connor McPartland recovered.
Although Hicksville’s offense had problems advancing the ball in this second quarter, their defensive play remained devastating. Steve Austin, Nick Delaney and Alex Pierce kept the Bombers’ offense under control.
The second half was more of the same with both teams pounding each other. Neither was able to gain significant advantage over the other. Kieran Sullivan, Stephen Ketelsen and Connor McPartland all had impressive tackles while Julian Franco was able to recover a second Baldwin fumble. Still, because of an equally determined Bomber defense the Crusaders were unable to score.
The fourth and final quarter was even more hard-hitting than the other three. Vincent Barretta, Tiki Albelo, Ty Baron and Pete Capel all had a hand in helping to keep Baldwin off the board. One main reason for the success of the Crusaders’ defense is the punting of Connor McPartland. His punts have not allowed the opposition to have favorable field position.
Once again, the Crusaders defensive execution was impeccable. Reminiscent of Minnesota’s Purple People Eaters or Pittsburgh’s Steel Curtain, Hicksville defense could be called the Orange Crush.
