Nitti Has a Record-Setting Night, But East Edged by Ward Melville

In what promised to be an exciting "Friday Night Lights" matchup, the Hills East Thunderbirds faced the Patriots of Ward Melville in Dix Hills Friday night.

Before a packed stadium, the T-Birds were defeated 46-42. The game proved to be an emotional roller coaster, as the final score was not indicative of the commanding lead the T-Birds carried throughout the first half. The T-Birds are now 1-1.

Hills East was led by senior quarterback RJ Nitti, who amassed 471 yards passing, which is a Hills East record, and 3rd best in Long Island history. Nitti had 3 touchdown passes and 2 rushing touchdowns, for a total of 5 touchdowns. Other standouts in the game were senior receiver Devin MacDonald, with a picture perfect 97 yard touchdown catch, which was set up by an interception by sophomore linebacker Blaise Spinelli.

Senior receiver DJ Paul made an impressive 77 yard touchdown catch, and senior receiver Michael Morris made a spectacular 38 yard catch, which set up a 21 yard touchdown run by senior receiver Rasheed Williams.

Next up the T-Birds hit the road to play the Tigers of Northport next Saturday, in what should be an exciting match-up.  Game time is 2 p.m.

Story and photo courtesy of Shari Morris of the Hills East Booster Club