EGHS Football Drops Home Opener to E-WG, 21-26

The pound-for-pound play of EG Football’s Friday night home opener against Exeter-West Greenwich mirrored a boxing match more so than a football game. With five lead changes, relentless defense and persistent pressure, it seemed almost unimaginable for either team to walk away defeated.

“It was a tough game, but we played hard,” said junior cornerback and wide receiver Kyle Palmer, still beat up from the loss.

The Avengers, with only seven seniors, are still trying to find their groove after the loss of last year’s senior bunch.

“It was difficult to see them go,” said senior captain Kevin Mason, “that class left a tough void to fill both offensively and defensively.” Mason, an inside linebacker and tight end, was a defensive star on last year’s team and showed nothing short of a leadership brilliance in Friday’s game. Another sign of brilliance in Friday’s game was the ground attack of sophomore Carney Crawford.

Crawford scored all three of the Avenger’s touchdowns in the defeat against EWG, putting together far over 100 all-purpose yards.

“Carney put the team on his back and put together an outstanding performance. He did everything in his power to win,” said junior tight end Jeremy Streich.

When asked about his performance, Crawford said, “It was fun to play under the lights again. I just wish we won.”

Despite Crawford’s heroics, EWG’s offensive drive late in the fourth quarter clinched their victory. With less than three minutes left on the clock and a one-point deficit, the Scarlet Knights marched 70 yards down the field before a goal line punch in, solidifying their victory.

The hungry Avengers will be under their home lights again next Friday, Sept. 17, against the Lincoln Lions.

Scott Cullinane is a senior at East Greenwich High School.