Columbiana Clippers Win Hard Fought Game

[Raider#23]

Columbiana Clippers 17 Springfield Tigers 9
The Columbiana Clippers improved their mark to 2-0 on the season after a hard fought 17-9 victory over the Springfield Tigers at picturesque Firestone Park in Columbiana on Saturday night. Senior running back John Tollas led the way for the Clippers with two touchdown runs. The Clippers option offense ate up both clock and yards, while a tenacious defense shut down a Springfield fourth quarter rally.

The Tigers attempted a “hail mary” pass on the final play of the game from the Clippers 30 yard line as time expired. The game ending play was set up by a blocked 28-yard field goal try by the Clippers. Springfield recovered the block kick at their own 41-yard line, and was able to drive to the Clipper 30 yard line with only 3 seconds remaining before the game-ending pass.

The Clippers scored first in the game with an Eric Birnesser field goal in the first quarter, and a John Tollas touchdown run in the second quarter. The Tigers were able to cut the margin with a field goal of their own by Senior quarterback/kicker Dan Schuler before the halftime mark. The 20-yard field goal made the score 10-3 as the two teams headed to the locker room.

The Tigers began the second half with a long drive that started at their own 28-yard line and ended with a touchdown run by Senior running back Jon Vivo. However, Senior Shawn Ortiz of the Clippers blocked the extra point. His block left the score at 10-9 in favor of the Clippers.

Columbiana would then go on a 6-play, 75-yard drive of their own to score on another John Tollas touchdown run. With the extra point, Columbiana held a 17-9 lead.

The Clippers shut down Springfield on two consecutive drives before the blocked field goal try. Quarterback Dan Schuler had open receivers on both Tiger possessions, but was not given enough time to throw due to rushing Clipper defenders.

Columbiana quarterback Adam Fast led all rushers with 165 yards on 18 carries, while going 0 for 6 passing. Junior running back Chris Harman also added 93 yards for the Clippers who amassed 348 total rushing yards. Jon Vivo led Springfield with 60 yards on the ground, while Dan Schuler was 12 of 27 passing for 164 yards and an interception. Senior receiver Seth Sarty has 6 catches for 105 yards for the Tigers.

**All game statistics provided by WBBW 1240AM-Youngstown, Ohio