Polo Dominates FCW 40-20 in Thrilling Eight-Man Showdown

UPDATE: In a gripping encounter on October 6, 2023, Polo triumphed over Flanagan-Cornell/Woodland (FCW) with a decisive score of 40-20 in eight-man football. The match showcased an intense battle for supremacy, but it was Polo’s special teams that delivered the crucial early advantage.

After the Falcons narrowed the gap to eight points with a 1-yard touchdown run by Brezdyn Simons early in the second quarter, Polo struck back swiftly. An electrifying 80-yard kickoff return by JT Stephenson swung momentum back to the Marcos, who never looked back.

“We’ve been talking about it all week,” said senior tight end/defensive end Damon Rowe. “We knew we were going to score on special teams.” This play was just one of four touchdowns for Stephenson, who also excelled with two rushing touchdowns and a passing touchdown.

Coach Ted Alston emphasized the importance of special teams in their strategy: “We were hoping we could at least take advantage at least once,” he remarked. Polo’s special teams training, which outpaces many high school programs, paid off significantly in this game.

In addition to Stephenson’s spectacular return, Polo’s Jordan Reed set up an early score with a stunning 68-yard punt return, leading to a five-yard touchdown run. FCW’s coach Todd Reed reflected on the impact of these early special teams plays: “You can’t give up touchdowns on special teams…we’ll get back to practice and work on that.”

Polo extended its lead to 26-6 after an 11-yard touchdown pass from Stephenson to Rowe. However, FCW fought back, with Logan Ruddy scoring on a five-yard run followed by a successful two-point conversion, invigorating their hopes.

As the game progressed into the fourth quarter, Polo’s Quinton Hart scored on a 45-yard run, only for FCW’s Simons to respond almost immediately with a 73-yard touchdown pass to Ruddy, bringing the score to 34-20.

Despite a valiant effort, FCW’s drive stumbled, turning the ball over on downs after failing to complete four consecutive passes. Polo sealed the game with another touchdown from Stephenson.

“It was a tough game,” Alston acknowledged. “Both teams played hard…they were getting after each other.” He praised FCW’s offensive line and lauded how his team responded to the loss of running back Jordan Reed during the game.

FCW’s coach Reed commended his players for their tenacity, noting, “Our guys never gave up. It was a physical game up front.” Despite the loss, the Falcons showed resilience, especially after halftime adjustments.

Hart emerged as Polo’s leading rusher with 78 yards, while Simons completed 5 of 13 passes for 143 yards, contributing to FCW’s efforts. Ruddy led all receivers with 125 yards, showcasing the competitive spirit of both teams throughout the match.

Polo’s emphatic victory not only highlights their tactical prowess but also sets the stage for an exciting season ahead. Fans and players alike are eager to see how both teams will respond in their upcoming matches.