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After a postponement due to rain, Kinnelon and Verona finally took the field on a sunny Sunday afternoon. This highly anticipated match-up between two conference football powerhouses showcased many talented players on both sides of the field. In the end, Verona made the most of their chances to come out on top 27-9.
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Verona came out strong as they scored the first 13 points of the game within the first six minutes. The Verona offense capitalized on two big plays and looked ready to make a convincing run. Shortly after, the Kinnelon offense led by QB Brian DeVeau drove down the field and connected on a TD throw to Chris Villante.
From there, the football game turned into a defensive battle and field position became a critical aspect of each drive. Both defenses adjusted to the pace of the game and kept their opponents in check.
On a crucial third-quarter drive, the Hillbillies scored a touchdown on a fourth-down run by Chris Mallory-Hughes, his second of the day. Mallory-Hughes set up the drive with an interception as Kinnelon threatened to tie the game while in the Verona red zone.
In the fourth quarter, the Colts scored a safety when they blocked a punt through the Verona end zone. Trailing just 17-9, Kinnelon could have tied the game on the ensuing possession, but instead turned the ball over on downs. Carlo Calabrese then clinched the victory by running 43 yards for a score.
Contrary to the score, Kinnelon was in it until the very end. They found ways to make it deep into Verona territory but fell short on several occasions by failing on a couple key fourth down plays. The Colts also suffered on defense after losing key football players to injury.
Despite their first loss, Coach Kevin White believes his team will be ready for next week's contest with Newark Academy. "We have a goal to make the playoffs," White said. --Anthony Mulvihill
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