It was a solid night for the L-S Pioneers who beat the Hempfield black Knights 34-24. The Pioneers jumped out in front of the Knights early in the game thanks to the arm and legs of senior quarterback Nate Shank. The 5’10 175 lb quarterback who threw for 1318 yards last season and is a four year starter, looked like the seasoned veteran he is.
Nate was very poised and fearless when he ran or threw the ball. There were times when Shank was able to just stand behind his offensive line and scan the field with patience and never showed any sign of happy feet. Early in the third quarter behind an offensive line that seemed to dominate at times, Shank ran for a 39-yard touchdown where he showed a good burst of speed.
The Pioneers offensive line had a very good night against the Knights defensive line, anchored by guard Jeff Pickel, 5’11 200lbs. The Pioneers who went 11-2 overall last year and won the section two title to advance to the AAA semifinals, losing to eventual champs Bishop McDevitt looked like they are ready for another title run this year.
The Hempfield Black knights who struggled to a 3-7 record last year never gave up in the game. Even though they were down 28-10, the Knights fought back to make it a close game. Quarterback Michael Murr, 5’11 165lbs, had a solid night with good running and throwing. Murr had a few long passes that helped put the Knights in good position to score.
Murr connected with wide receiver Wilson Lopez for a 42-yard pass. Lopez a 5’10 165lb wide receiver who showed good speed & quickness made a great one handed catch with the defensive back all over him in the third quarter. Lopez then later ran a good route and quarterback Murr threw the ball into the end zone. Lopez gave great effort but could not bring in the ball for a score.
Murr also had a very good pass to wide receiver Trevon Hinton for 70 yards that eventually lead to a tight end. Hinton a 6’1 160lb, wide receiver who played both ways showed great linear speed and an ability to accelerate. Hinton should have a very good year with his athletic ability especially if he polishes his route running.
In the end, the Knights ended the game with a failed onside kick. The Pioneers ran out the clock for the victory in the season opener.
