NORWICH – To win a sectional title in any sport is huge but getting there is a challenge. Norwich, Sherburne-Earlville, Greene and Harpursville-Afton are all vying for sectional final spots in their respective classes on Friday and Saturday.
2-Norwich vs 3-Maine-Endwell
All ready facing each other this season, Norwich captured the 13-12 dramatic win over the Spartans in week three. Even with that win, most people are still considering the Tornado to be the underdog of the match-up.
“We are using the fact that people still think we are the underdog as motivation,” said Norwich Head Coach Mike Chrystie.
With the ‘win or go home’ stakes on the table, Maine-Endwell will be looking to end the Purple Tornado season, revenging the heartbreaking loss.
“Maine-Endwell is an improved team but so are we,” said Chrystie. “It will come down to who can execute the minor adjustments.”
The Spartans have a strong option offense that the Purple will need to shut down. Key players in that system are fullback Josh Chandler and quarterback Joe Mancini.
“When you go against an option offense, you have to stop the fullback first. Chandler is a hard runner and very physical,” said Chrystie. “If we can stop the fullback and play out option responsibilities on the quarterback and the pitch back, we will be okay. That’s easier said than done but our kids are ready and they believe in one another.”
Offensively, Norwich believes in their system but will need help from the front line. With the Spartans defense upfront being much larger than Norwich’s offensive line.
Earlier this season, Chrystie gave much praise to his strong line in the first match-up, stating they were a big reason why they won the game.
“We have to match their physicality and block for 12 steps. They will win the two step battle; we need to win the 12 step battle.”
Game time is scheduled for a 7 p.m. kick-off tonight. Winner will move on to face the victor of Chenango Forks and Susquehanna Valley next weekend in the Section IV Class B championship game.
5-Sheburne-Earlville vs 1-General Brown
After taking down 4-Jordan Elbridge just a week ago, the Marauders carry a six game win streak into Saturday’s semifinal against top seed and undefeated General Brown.
General Brown hasn’t been challenged much this season, scoring at total of 427 points (average of 53.4 point per game) over their eight game season.
Not looking to slow that down against Sherburne-Earlville, leading rusher Zach Barker will be a key player to watch. Already rushing for over 945 yards this season, Barker is looking to get over the centry mark.
Hoping to put a stop to that from happening will be the Marauders defense, lead by linebacker Jessey Lynch and lineman Tanner Campbell.
S-E will also have to be on the lookout for arm of Thomas Dupee. Dupee has thrown eight TD passes this season.
But don’t count out the Marauders. Their offense has provided high numbers as well. Providing many yards on the ground this season have been running backs Lincoln Owen and Vinny Albertina, both stepping up on many occasions this season.
Quarterback Gabe Irwin has improved week in and week out, as Marauder Head Coach Ed Homquist has shown trust in him in late game situations. One that comes to mind is the win over Little Falls, when Holmquist called the passing play that ultimately won the game for S-E, clinching the Section III Class C playoff berth.
