West Roxbury Falcons Off to a Flying Start

The Parkway Pop Warner Falcons continued their fast start last week, as both the D and E Teams were victorious against the Holliston Panthers at Catholic Memorial's home field. 

The E Team (ages 7-9) improved to 2-0 by beating the Panthers 32-6. Running backs Myles Breneus, Tobi Ojo, and Anthony Albino shredded the Panthers defense as a result of hard running and another masterful performance by the offensive line. Linemen Nick Alessi and Greg Stewart were particularly effective in driving Holliston defenders off the line of scrimmage and opening holes for the backs.

The Falcons E Team had a more difficult task this week against the Canton Bulldogs, dropping a hard fought game 14-12. The Bulldogs struck early after returning the opening kick-off down inside the Falcons' 10 yard line. They added another score after a grinding, clock-killing drive and led 14-0 at the half. The Falcon boys showed their mettle, however, in the second half. Overcoming soaring temperatures and a pounding Bulldog attack, they refused to surrender a single point to the Bulldogs in the final two quarters. Omari Phillip was ubiquitous on defense, running down ball carriers and making tackles all over the field. Isaiah Cajuste and Shawn Kelly spelled their line mates effectively and helped the defense shut down the Bulldogs' inside running game. Cornerback  Justin Siri stymied  Canton's backs when they tried to run left, forcing them to run right for most of the game. 

The vaunted Falcon offense got in rhythm to open the second half. Danny Sheehan, who started the game at center, was perfect on all of his snaps, and Myles Breneus set up a score with a long run to the outside. The Falcons added another score when defender Yahm Rones split the guard and tackle with a tremendous athletic play, scooped up a fumbled exchange by the Bulldogs quarterback, and galloped fifty yards for a touchdown. The Bulldogs ended the Falcons' valiant rally by converting a first down on fourth and long that allowed them to run out the time. The Falcons were supported by a throng of rowdy fans and the glamorous E Team cheerleaders, who entertained the crowd with a polished half-time dance routine to Miley Cyrus's "True Friend."

The Falcons A, C, and D teams also suffered heart-breaking losses despite very courageous play. The C team, led by Chris Albino, scored twice in the second half to give the Falcons a 20-13 lead. They gave up a tying score in the final seconds of regulation, however, and were defeated in overtime 26-20. The D team rallied from behind to tie the score in the waning moments of its contest, but they succumbed to the Bulldogs in triple overtime in a thrilling contest.

The A and C Team cheerleaders also performed well during their games. The A team squad will be competing in a regional cheer competition next month in Sandwich. The Falcon players and cheerleaders will be back in action Sunday against Brockton in their first road game of the season.  

This article was written and submitted by Dave Susich for Parkway Pop Warner.