State Champions Again!

** Fairfield Giants win 5th State Championship in the last 10 years!!!!

The Fairfield Giants 10U team beat a very talented and previously undefeated New Milford Bulls team 20-0 on Sunday afternoon. "You know what they say ... defense wins championships" said defensive coordinator Rob Manning as the defensive unit recorded its 5th shutout of the year. Led by great linebacker play from Finbar Malloy, Becket Hallma, Charlie Mahoney and TJ Cirilli the defense limited the Bulls to just 3 first downs the whole game. Shutdown corners Luke Shannehan (interception), Robbie Manning, Matt Kleinman and safeties Justin Toothaker and Andy "ATM" Taylor stifled the Bulls passing game. While the defensive front led by excellent play from Luca Fried, Billy Mitchell, RJ Patrignelli, Mason Frey, Brooks Reynolds, Cole Westerland and Ryan Tompkins recorded 6 sacks on the day.

The offense got started with a 10 play opening drive ending with a Finbar Malloy run behind the strong blocking by right tackle Braeden Aronson. With the ground game established, the offense took to the air putting the ball in the hands of rocket arm Matt McManus who threw for 152 yards on 4 for 6 passing and two key touchdowns to Mason Frey and Andrew Taylor. "I have a lot of trust in my line and my teammates .. all I need to do is sling it and good things happen" said McManus to ESPN reporters after the game. On the day the offensive line led by Will Donahue, Bradley Michaud, Tanner Sticco, Dylan Katz, Colm Watke, Luke Sardinha and Ben Zuckerman dominated the trenches, creating big holes for the Giant ball carriers.

With the win Giants move to 10-0 and take on a tough Springfield Longhorn team on Sunday at 12pm at Naugatuck High School. "It is amazing what can happen when a group of talented young men learn how to be great teammates and play with one heart, one mind and as one team" said coach Mark Cirilli.