Marple Newtown Football Boosters Club Host Banquet for the 2009 Season

BROOMALL, PA - The 2009 Marple Newtown Football Team Banquet took place at the Paxon Hollow Country Club on Sunday, January 31st, 2010. This event was sponsored by the Marple Newtown Football Boosters Club. Awards were given, the team highlight film was shown, and former Head Football Coach of the Tigers, Jim Smith, was the keynote speaker of the event.

The Most Dedicated Player Award was named in honor of former head coach and Athletic Director, Jim Smith. Smith, who holds the Marple Newtown record for most victories as a head coach with 57, spoke about the importance of dedication and committment. He presented Coach Ray Gionta with a unique Tiger necktie from Princeton University, given to him by a former student.

The Tigers Radio Network was there to catch all of the action including speeches given by coaches and players along with the presentation of various awards. Enjoy.

Full audio replay of the Marple Newtown Football Banquet for the 2009 season presented by the Marple Newtown Football Boosters Club.

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Opening remarks by Head Football Coach Ray Gionta

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Coach Steve Cull presents the Most Improved Player Award to senior SE/DB Vince Christiana.

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Coach Lou D'Alonzo presents the George Schmitt Defensive MVP Award to senior RB/LB Carl Kasarsky.

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Coach Ray Gionta introduces the former head football coach and athletic director at Marple Newtown and the keynote speaker for the banquet, Jim Smith.

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Coach Ray Gionta presents the Jim Smith Most Dedicated Player Award to junior OG/LB Brian Kelly.

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Coach Mike Doyle presents the Chris Gicking Offensive MVP Award to junior RB/DB Ryan White.

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Coach Gionta presents the 14th Brian "Woody" Peoples Memorial Scholarship and Coach Gary Molineux presents the Bill Maas Outstanding Lineman Award to senior OT/DE Kevan Strigle.

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Coach Gionta presents the Bob Kening Coaches Award and the Team Most Valuable Player Award to senior QB/DB Kevin Johnson.

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Coach Mike Pettinelli presents the Steve Coyne Special Teams MVP Award in absentia to senior K Adam Fender.

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Contact EyeOfTheTigersBlog.com at jma158@comcast.net.

TOP 10 MOMENTS OF 2009

The top 10 moments of the Marple Newtown Tigers 2009 football season are presented by Bob Herpen and Jim Allsman of the Tigers Radio Network.

The Tigers Radio Network is presented by the following sponsors:
Philly Pretzel Factory
United States Marine Corps
Marple Newtown Football Boosters Club
Marple Newtown Football Alumni Association

From high atop the 50-yard line, here we go...

Top 10 Moments of 2009

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Thanks for listening. Have a happy and safe Thanksgiving.

The Number 1 Moment of the Tiger's 2009 Season



Contact EyeOfTheTigersBlog.com at jma158@comcast.net.

TOP 10 MOMENTS OF 2009, stay tuned.....

On Thursday, November 26th, 2009 at 9 AM, the top 10 moments of the Marple Newtown Tigers 2009 football season will be presented by Bob Herpen and Jim Allsman of the Tigers Radio Network.

Log on to http://www.eyeofthetigersblog.com/ at 9 AM on Thanksgiving morning for the top 10 moments of the 2009 Marple Newtown Tigers football season.

The Tigers Radio Network is presented by the following sponsors:
Philly Pretzel Factory
United States Marine Corps
Marple Newtown Football Boosters Club
Marple Newtown Football Alumni Association


Contact EyeOfTheTigersBlog.com at jma158@comcast.net.

Tiger's Season Comes To An End After Playoff Loss to Owen J. Roberts

By Steve Scoleri
Tigers Radio Network

BUCKTOWN, PA - It was a great season for the Marple Newtown Tigers that unfortunately came to an end under the wet conditions at Owen J. Roberts on Friday night. The Owen J. Roberts Wildcats star running back, Ryan Brumfield, rushed for 251 yards on 29 attempts and got into the end zone four times to give the Wildcats a 34-7 victory over Marple Newtown.

The Marple Newtown Tigers started out well in the game. They were able to stop the Wildcats on the first series to give them some momentum. Kevin Johnson converted a huge 4th and 20 to Ryan White to keep the drive alive. The Tigers attempted a Ryan Fender field goal that was blocked by Steve Lawless and picked up by Kevin Johnson who ran it into the end zone for an 11-yard run. The Tigers did a nice job in controlling the clock for 7 minutes and 35 seconds on 14 plays.

The Owen J. Roberts Wildcats would answer back with star running back Ryan Brumfield. The big play that opened it up for the Wildcats was when Brumfield converted a halfback pass to Sam Funk for 50-yards to set up a 3-yard touchdown run by Ryan Brumfield with 1:04 remaining in the first quarter to tie the score at 7-7.

The big play that hurt the Tigers in the second quarter was when Kevin Johnson threw a 78-yard interception return which set up another 3-yard touchdown run by Ryan Brumfield. With 1:16 remaining in the half, Owen J. Roberts would go up 14-7 over Marple Newtown.

Brumfield continued running the ball well in the second half. In the third quarter, Ryan Brumfield was able to control the clock getting numerous first downs. The bright spot in the quarter for Marple Newtown was stopping Owen J. Roberts on a 4th down conversion with a sack by Steve DeMaria. Unfortunately, the Tigers were unable to do anything with the stop. With 1:05 remaining, Ryan Brumfield was able to break off a 77-yard touchdown run to put the Wildcats up 21-7 over the Tigers after the third quarter.

Ryan Brumfield kept the clock moving in the fourth quarter not allowing Marple Newtown much time for the comeback. With 7:42 remaining, Brumfield scored on a 17-yard touchdown run tallying his fourth touchdown of the game. The extra point was missed to give the Wildcats the edge 27-7 over the Tigers. Owen J. Roberts closed the game with a 3-yard touchdown run by Sam Funk with 1:38 remaining to put the Wildcats up 34-7 over the Tigers.

It was a tough loss for head coach Ray Gionta and the team after such a great season. Marple Newtown had too many penalties and too many turnovers which was uncharacteristic of the team all season.

Looking ahead to next season, the Tigers have numerous players who stepped it up and are coming back next season.

Overall it was a great season for the Marple Newtown Tigers who surprised many people with their success.

It was a privilege as an intern to follow such a great team all season.


Contact Steve Scoleri at sds5084@psu.edu.
Contact EyeOfTheTigersBlog.com at jma158@comcast.net.

Brumfield and Owen J. Too Much for Tigers

By Chris McSweeney
Tigers Radio Network

BUCKTOWN, PA - Unfortunately, the Tigers season came to an end tonight under the rain and lights at Owen J. Roberts High School. The Wildcats came out on top over the Tigers in a 34-7 victory. Ryan Brumfield, the Wildcats star running back, would end up tallying four touchdowns and over 100 yards on the night. Things did start out well for the Tigers when they scored a touchdown on a blocked Adam Fender field goal, that fell to holder Kevin Johnson who picked up the ball and scrambled in 11-yards for a touchdown. Fender would answer back and convert the extra point to put Marple Newtown up 7-0 in the first quarter.

Owen J. Roberts would answer right back on their next drive with a touchdown of their own. Brumfield converted a halfback pass to Sam Funk for 50-yards that would ultimately set up a 3-yard touchdown run with 1:04 remaining in the first. The score would be tied at 7-7 at the end of the first. The second quarter was fairly even until an 78-yard interception return of Kevin Johnson would set up the Wildcats in the Tiger's red zone. A few plays later it was more of the same as Ryan Brumfield would score another 3-yard touchdown run with 1:16 remaining in the half. At the end of the half, the score was 14-7 in favor of the Wildcats.

The third quarter was all Ryan Brumfield. Brumfield controlled the ball and the clock for the Wildcats. He capped off the quarter with a huge 77-yard touchdown run with 1:05 remaining in the third. That put the score at 21-7 and it stayed that way going into the fourth quarter. Brumfield would continue his dominant ways in the fourth quarter running for one more touchdown and multiple first downs. Brumfield’s score came with 7:42 left in the game. It was a 17-yard touchdown run, the extra point was missed and the score went to 27-7 in favor of Owen J. Roberts. The Wildcats added one more score with 1:38 remaining in the game on a 3-yard touchdown run from Sam Funk.

This was a touch one to swallow for the Tigers but they should not hang their heads down at all. It was a fantastic season for Marple Newtown and one they should be very proud of.

As an intern, I have had the privilege of watching this team, home and away all year, and to be associated with this team is something I took great honor in.


Contact Chris McSweeney at cem5053@psu.edu.
Contact EyeOfTheTigersBlog.com at jma158@comcast.net.

MARPLE NEWTOWN at Owen J. Roberts

Bob Herpen, from the Tigers Radio Network, provides you with a GAME UPDATE from Pottstown, PA where the MARPLE NEWTOWN TIGERS are playing the Owen J. Roberts Wildcats in the PIAA District One Class AAA playoffs.

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MARPLE NEWTOWN at Owen J. Roberts

Bob Herpen, from the Tigers Radio Network, provides you with a GAME UPDATE from Pottstown, PA where the MARPLE NEWTOWN TIGERS are playing the Owen J. Roberts Wildcats in the PIAA District One Class AAA playoffs.

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MARPLE NEWTOWN at Owen J. Roberts

Bob Herpen, from the Tigers Radio Network, provides you with a GAME UPDATE from Pottstown, PA where the MARPLE NEWTOWN TIGERS are playing the Owen J. Roberts Wildcats in the PIAA District One Class AAA playoffs.

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MARPLE NEWTOWN at Owen J. Roberts

Bob Herpen, from the Tigers Radio Network, provides you with a GAME UPDATE from Pottstown, PA where the MARPLE NEWTOWN TIGERS are playing the Owen J. Roberts Wildcats in the PIAA District One Class AAA playoffs.

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MARPLE NEWTOWN at Owen J. Roberts

Bob Herpen, from the Tigers Radio Network, provides you with a GAME UPDATE from Pottstown, PA where the MARPLE NEWTOWN TIGERS are playing the Owen J. Roberts Wildcats in the PIAA District One Class AAA playoffs.

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POSTSEASON COVERAGE – Part 3 of 3

By Sam Snyderman & Jim Allsman
Tigers Radio Network

In talking to 2006 Marple Newtown football alumni, it is easy to say that they are excited to see another Tiger's football team make it to the playoffs. This year Marple Newtown has the offensive and defensive game plan that has led them back to the playoffs in 2009. Among many similarities between the teams, the '06 and the '09 teams are strong at the offensive line.

"It was a privilege to run behind them," said 2006 running back John Gallagher, who averaged 6.1 yard per carry in that magical season. Along with John Gallagher, junior John Rutecki (5.3 yards per carry) definitely contributed to the Tiger's exceptionally potent offense. "They were one of the best (offensive lines) in the district in my opinion," said running back Steven Giordano averaging 8.5 yards per carry in 2006.

This season, senior co-captain Kevan Strigle is very happy about how his offensive line has performed. It's obvious they have performed well because Ryan Duffy and Ryan White have combined for 1,577 yards on 252 carries for Marple Newtown this season.

Duffy, a junior, is 99 yards way from breaking the 1,000 yard mark for the 2009 season.

As for the team preparation for the game, Strigle noted that "There is no free time, my teammates better be at practice playing tough and very physical." When Strigle was asked about making the playoffs he said he had "mixed emotions" and that it "didn't sink in for a while." He also made a special note that the Tigers were "not done yet."

Kevin Johnson, the Tiger's quarterback, is preparing for the game versus Owen J. Roberts by "staying focused and happy." As for the team, Johnson said that "they know what they have to do to win it."

The Wing-T offensive is one that is run-heavy, and for the Tigers, directed by veteran coach Ray Gionta. Gionta has established himself over the years as a dominant head coach and offensive coordinator. Winning his 100^th career game this year against Springfield proves that Ray Gionta is a remarkable head football coach in the Southeast Pennsylvania region.

Owen J. Roberts, by the numbers…

The Wildcats, from the Pioneer League, enter the playoffs with 9-1 record overall under head football coach Tom Barr.

According to MaxPreps.com, the Wildcats feature player on offense is RB Ryan Brumfield (#22). Brumfield ended the regular season with 251 carries for 2,013 yards (8.02 yards per carry and 201.3 yards per game) and 31 TDs. The next noteworthy back behind Brumfield is Sam Funk who has 40 touches for 289 yards (7.23 yards per carry and 28.9 yards per game) and 3 TDs. Funk is also the leading receiver with 9 catches for 384 yards and 5 TDs.

The Wildcat's QB, Nate Walters, ended the season 24 for 44 for 584 yards including 4 TDs, and 1 interception.

Walters has fumbled and lost the ball 6 times while Brumfield has 4 fumbles and 3 fumbles lost.

The top three leading tacklers on defense are Sean Moloney (42), Sam Funk (37), and Steve Lawless (37). Mike Nowak and Sean Moloney lead the team in sacks with 3 each a piece. Brumfield leads the team in interceptions with 3 for 70 yards.

X-Factors

The Tigers will have their hands full on defense trying to handle the Wildcat offense and the dominant play of RB Ryan Brumfield. Below are some statistics from the 2009 Marple Newtown regular season that may play a significant part in the outcome of Friday night's game:

Statistical Category	2009
All Penalties: No. – Yards	42 – 384
Yds Penalized per Game	38
Offensive Penalties	30 -216
Defensive Penalties	12 – 168
Punt Returns: No. – Yds	10 – 73
Punt Returns – Average	7.3
Punt Retruns –TDs	1
Kick Returns: No. – Yds	25 – 361
Kickoff Returns – Avg	14.4
Kickoff Returns – TDs	1
Punts: No. – Yards	23 – 722
Yards per Punt	31.4
Punts inside 20	5

Contact EyeOfTheTigersBlog.com at jma158@comcast.net.

POSTSEASON COVERAGE – Part 2 of 3

By Sam Snyderman & Jim Allsman
Tigers Radio Network

The Marple Newtown Tigers defense, under the tutelage of Lou D'Alonzo, has operated every season under the same philosophy: improvise, adapt and overcome. This is what a defensive coordinator and coaching staff must do when their personnel changes can be drastic from year-to-year.

Coach D'Alonzo knows change and the numbers over the years have shown that he has a concrete understanding of what to do with his players on defense, despite the loss of valuable seniors after each season.

In retrospect, if there ever was one year D'Alonzo was least stressed in setting up his defense, it was 2006.

Starting up front and known in 2006 as the Wolfpack, coached by Nick Reynolds, the Tigers defensive line was made up of players that were simply big and nasty.

The books ends of the defensive line were Shane Breslin (DE, #56) and Pete Massaro (DE, 59). The interior was made up of Dave Hansell (DL, #1) and Perry Koliatsis (DL, #77). Depending on the situation, Coach Reynolds would rotate in Vinny Quercetti (DL, 61), Jay Trio (DL, #54) and Guy DeFeo (DL, #55).

In the regular season (10 weeks), this group accounted for an astounding 272 tackles, 41 tackles for a loss (TFL) for minus 165.5 yards, 14.5 sacks for minus 83 yards, 13 quarterback hurries and 12 forced fumbles.

Hansell, Koliatsis, Massaro and Breslin lead the team in tackles respectively.

Dan Giordano (LB #10) and Pat Aigeldinger (LB, #4) were key cogs in the linebacker crew for the 2006 defense.

The secondary was lead by Steve Giordano (DB, #6) and John Rutecki (S, #32).

In 2006, these players were critical to the success of the defense in a season where they posted 5 shutouts and held their opponents to 7.1 points per game.

Prior to the start of the 2009 season, the coaching staff had to figure out how to replace both inside linebacker spots. Those positions were vacated by Nick Stephens and tri-captain Dan Giordano, the Tiger's leading tacklers in 2008 (both had 76 tackles each).

The other key losses on defense from 2008 were the Tiger's other two captains, Phil Graziano (S, #20) and Steve Reynolds (DE, #51). Graziano was the second leading tackler on the team with 54; including 6 TFLs. Reynolds was just behind Graziano as the team's third best tackler with 46 total. He also led the team with 4 sacks, 8.5 tackles TFLs and 5 quarterback hurries.

The 2009 defensive line welcomed back key starters in Kevan Strigle (DE, #68) and Christian Whiteside (DT, #77). Through ten weeks of regular season play, senior captain Strigle has 25 tackles, 2 TFLs, 1 sack and 2 fumble recoveries. Whiteside, a junior, has accumulated 42 tackles, 8 TFLs, 3 sacks and 1 forced fumble.

Also making significant contributions on the defensive line is junior T.J. Fite (DT, #64) who has 29 tackles, 2 TFLs, 1 sack, and 1 fumble recovery. In addition to Fite, junior Pete Finegan (DL, #54) has performed well and has contributed with 2 TFLs, 1 sack, 2 QB hurries and 1 forced fumble.

The top two linebackers, Brian Kelly (LB, #50) and Carl Kasarky (LB, #22), lead the team in tackles with 74 and 58 respectively. Kelly has been quite a force on the defense with 2.5 sacks for minus 15 yards, 7 TFLs for minus 33 yards, 1 QB hurry, 4 pass breakups, 1 forced fumble and 1 fumble recovery. Kasarky has 4.5 TFLs for minus 7 yards, 6 pass breakups, 4 forced fumbles and 1 interception.

Providing the defense a nice boost in the regular season was junior Matt Gregory (LB, #28). He leads the team in sacks with 4.5 for minus 36 yards, 7 TFLs for minus 41 yards, 1 QB hurry, 1 fumble recovery and 1 blocked kick.

The 2009 secondary is led by Vince Christiana (DB, #81) who is the third leading tackler on the team with 52 tackles, including 3 pass breakups, 1 fumble recovery and 2 interceptions.

Ryan White (DB, #18) and Johnny Watkins (DB, #3) make up the rest of the 2009 secondary for the Tiger's defense. White, a junior, has 28 tackles including 3 pass breakups, 1 forced fumble, 1 fumble recovery and 1 interception. Watkins, a sophomore, has 23 tackles and leads the team in pass breakups with 8 during the regular season.

TIGER'S DEFENSE VS. OPPOSING OFFENSES

Statistical Category	2006	2009
Fumbles – Number/Lost	29 / 14	25 / 12
Turnover Margin (fumbles & INTs)	+9	+3
Interceptions	7	7
INT return yards	94	93
Fumble Recovery – No.	14	12
Fumble Recovery – Yards	70	24
Sacks: Number – Yards	25 – (-152)	15 – (-104)
TFLs: Number – Yards	42 – (-166)	27 – (-66)
Safeties	2	0
Points Scored	71	110
Pts Scored per Game	7.1	11
First Downs	111	119
Rushing Attempts	363	311
Net Yards Rushing	871	1,360
Yards per Rush	2.4	4.4
Yards Rushing per Game	87.1	136
Rushing Touchdowns	3	7
Net Yards Passing	978	990
Comp-Att-INT	77-151-7	68-168-7
Completion %	51%	40.5%
Yards per Completion	12.7	14.6
Yards Passing per Game	97.8	99
Passing Touchdowns	7	7
Pass Efficiency Rating	111.43	95.39
Total Offensive Plays	514	479
Total Net Yards	1,849	2,350
Average Gain per Play	3.6	4.9
Average Yards per Game	184.9	235
Time of Possession – Total	254:33	221:04
3rd Down Conversion %	34.6%	34%
4th Down Conversion %	28.6%	27.3%

Contact EyeOfTheTigersBlog.com at jma158@comcast.net.

POSTSEASON COVERAGE – Part 1 of 3

By Sam Synderman & Jim Allsman
Tigers Radio Network

In 2006, the Marple Newtown Tigers, under the direction of current head football coach Ray Gionta, made their first playoff appearance in the history of the program under the current postseason format that the PIAA established in 1988.

Three years later, the Tigers have been invited back to the single elimination tournament that will start throughout Pennsylvania on November 13/14 and will end in Hershey on December 18/19.

Despite ending the 2009 season on a tough loss at home against Radnor on November 6^th, Marple Newtown posted a 7-3 record overall which earned the Tigers the sixth seed in the District One Class AAA standings. The Tigers will travel to the site of the number three seed, Owen J. Roberts, on Friday November 13^th to embark on their playoff journey to Hershey, PA.

Below, EyeOfTheTigersBlog.com has partnered with the Tigers Radio Network to provide our readers and listeners with a statistical comparison of the 2006 team to the current team, former and current player reactions, and a preview of Friday night's game in Pottstown, PA.

Today (Tuesday November 10^th), we will take a look at and compare the offense of 2006 to the offense of 2009.

Both teams played ten regular season games (1 non-league and 9 Central League games) prior to the playoffs. The 2006 team played the entire Central League slate in the following order: Upper Darby, Lower Merion, Springfield, Strath Haven, Penncrest, Ridley, Radnor, Haverford and Conestoga. This year however, the Central League was split into two divisions due to the addition of Garnet Valley and Harriton. Due to that fact, the Tigers played all of the previously mentioned teams in 2009 sans Lower Merion and Ridley.

Just like the current offensive unit, the 2006 unit ran the Wing-T offense which was under the field direction of Jon Liberty (QB, #17). Liberty, a two-year starter from 2005-06, was a capable quarterback who in the regular season went 22 for 57 for 397 yards with 4 touchdowns and 1 interception. He had a measly 38.6% completion percentage and a QB rating of 116.75. Liberty also ran the ball for 210 yards on 65 touches (3.2 yards per rush) and had 7 rushing touchdowns.

The 2009 offensive unit is run by Kevin Johnson (QB, #15). Johnson, also a two-year starter from 2008-09, is a terrific game manager. During this regular season, Johnson had 49 completions on 83 attempts for 672 yards including 8 touchdown passes and 3 interceptions. Johnson's completion percentage is 59% and he boasts a QB rating of 151.62. On the ground, Johnson has ran the ball 50 times for 125 yards (2.5 yards per rush) and has 5 rushing touchdowns.

The 2006 backfield comprised of John Rutecki (RB, #32) and John Gallagher (RB, #28). Both backs combined for 1,206 rushing yards on 216 carries for the Tigers. Rutecki had 3 rushing touchdowns while Gallagher had 5 touchdowns on the ground in 2006. Also in the mix during that season was Steve Giordano who added 30 carries for 261 yards and 4 touchdowns.

The top four backs respectively for 2006, Rutecki, Gallagher, Liberty and Giordano, combined for 1,677 yards on 311 rushes giving the Tigers 5.4 yards per carry.

Coincidentally in 2009, the Marple Newtown Tigers rely heavily on two running backs that share the same first name just like Rutecki and Gallagher. Ryan Duffy (RB, #2) and Ryan White (RB, #18) have combined for 1,577 yards on 252 carries for Marple Newtown this season. Duffy has 4 touchdowns while White edges him by one with 5 total.

Although White lags behind Duffy in total rushing yards (Duffy-901, White-676), White is also a threat on special teams. He has 8 kickoff returns for 220 yards (27.5 average) including a 92-yard return for a touchdown for a total of 1,124 all-purpose yards through 10 weeks.

The third best back in yardage on the current team is Mario Dioguardi (RB, #33). Dioguardi has 63 carries for 352 yards and 3 touchdowns.

The top four backs in the following order for the 2009 Tigers, Duffy, White, Dioguardi and Johnson, have combined for 2,054 yards on 365 carries that gives the 2009 offense 5.6 yards per carry.

The current Tigers offense however has the edge over the 2006 offense because of the 2009 receiving corps. Only one player in 2006 posted triple digit receiving yardage. Pat Aigeldinger (SE, #4) had 7 catches for 196 and 2 touchdowns during the regular season. The only other player close to 100 yards receiving was John Gallagher who had 8 catches for 98 yards and 2 touchdowns.

The 2009 Tigers have three players that have posted 100 yards or more in receiving in 10 weeks. White leads the team with 19 receptions for 202 yards and 2 touchdowns. Carl Kasarsky (RB, #22) leads the team in receiving yards with 269 on 18 catches including 2 touchdowns. The third receiving threat on the 2009 offense is Vince Christiana (SE, #81), who has pulled down 4 receptions for 102 yards and 2 touchdowns.

MAJOR STATISTICAL CATEGORIES ON OFFENSE

Statistical Category	2006	2009
Points Scored	231	244
Pts Scored per Game	23.1	24.4
First Downs	106	150
Rushing Attempts	380	405
Net Yards Rushing	2,013	2,337
Yards per Rush	5.3	5.8
Yards Rushing per Game	201.3	233.7
Rushing Touchdowns	25	23
Net Yards Passing	397	672
Comp-Att-INT	22-58-1	49-83-3
Completion %	37.9%	59%
Yards per Completion	18.0	13.7
Yards Passing per Game	39.7	67.2
Passing Touchdowns	4	8
Pass Efficiency Rating	114.74	151.62
Total Offensive Plays	438	488
Total Net Yards	2,410	3,009
Average Gain per Play	5.5	6.2
Average Yards per Game	241.0	300.9
Time of Possession – Total	225:27	258:56
3rd Down Conversion %	31.5%	47.8%
4th Down Conversion %	28.6%	40.0%
Number of Drives	102	86

Contact EyeOfTheTigersBlog.com at jma158@comcast.net.

Tigers Lose to Radnor, Drop to Sixth Seed in District One Playoff Bracket

By Chris McSweeney
Tigers Radio Network

NEWTOWN SQUARE, PA - The Tigers suffered a tough loss this past Friday night to the Radnor Red Raiders. The game was back and forth all night with the Raiders eventually coming out on top on a beautiful clear night. This loss put a damper on some of the senior night festivities for the Tigers' players, but the ultimate goal of making it to the postseason was achieved. Despite the loss, the Tigers will still play this coming Friday night in the PIAA District One (Class AAA) playoffs. Marple Newtown High School will face Owen J. Roberts on the road on Friday, November 13th at 7pm.

This loss Friday was a controversial one. In the late seconds, the Raiders scored a touchdown on what was possibly a push off by Radnor wide receiver Rob McCurdy. This score would be the second from Lundstrom to McCurdy in the last three minutes of the contest. Quarterback Alex Lundstrom completed six passes, two of which went to McCurdy to complete the late, game winning rally.

To start the game, the Tigers fumbled the opening kickoff which lead to a recovery by Owen Hobson of the Raiders and set up an opening drive for Radnor that gave them a 3-0 lead. The Tigers played good defense from the start and forced the Red Raiders to send out Berg Yepremian to attempt a 35-yard field goal. He made the field goal and put the Red Raiders up 3-0. This was a little victory for the Tigers defense as they were forced into a tough situation with the fumble on special teams. The Tigers would answer right back in the first quarter through seniors Kevin Johnson and Vince Christiana. With 7:05 remaining, Johnson passed to Christiana near the far sideline who turned up field and into the end zone to complete a 15-yard touchdown. The Tigers would continue their solid offensive play when Ryan Duffy scampered into the end zone on a 3-yard touchdown run with 4:46 remaining.

The Red Raiders would answer back in the second quarter when Derrick Adger broke a 34-yard touchdown run. It was a darting run from Adger who flew by defenders and attacked the end zone with a purpose. This would make it 13-10 in favor of the Tigers at halftime. The third quarter came and went with both teams battling and attempting to beat the other. Both defenses played strong and kept each other out of the end zone. The fourth quarter was a different story for the defenses as they gave up points for each team. The Tigers drew first blood as Kevin Johnson dashed into the end zone on a 21-yard touchdown run with four minutes remaining in th quarter. This would put the Tigers up 20-10 with 4 minutes left. Then Lundstrom and McCurdy would take over, scoring two touchdowns in the last 3 minutes. These two touchdowns would ultimately put Radnor up for good. The Tigers would have one last chance to score but an interception would stop them in their tracks.

Although this was a tough loss to swallow at the time, the Tigers realize they are still playoff bound and will have a great chance to keep their season alive. The players must pick their heads up and focus on Friday night against Owen J. Roberts. The Tigers only lost one quarter against the Raiders and they need to take the positive aspects from the game, work hard in practice and come out to play in the postseason.

Postseason Notes...

The District One Class AAA bracket is as follows:

(8) Upper Moreland at (1) Pottsgrove
(7) Academy Park at (2) Interboro
(6) Marple Newtown Tigers at (3) Owen J. Roberts Wildcats
(5) Upper Perkiomen at (4) Bayard Rustin

Marple Newtown will make its second PIAA District One playoff appearance on Friday, November 13 at Owen J. Roberts.

The Tigers Radio Network crew will be providing expanded coverage of the matchup this week on the www.EyeOfTheTigersBlog.com and www.MarpleNewtownFootball.com.

For directions to Wildcat Stadium, click here. The address for the high school is: 981 Ridge Road, Pottstown, PA 19465.


Contact Chris McSweeney at cem5053@psu.edu.
Contact EyeOfTheTigersBlog.com at jma158@comcast.net.

Radnor at MARPLE NEWTOWN

Bob Herpen, Chris McSweeney and Steve Scoleri of the Tigers Radio Network provide complete coverage of the Radnor Red Raiders vs. the Marple Newtown Tigers on Friday, November 6th, 2009 from Harry Harvey Stadium on the campus of Marple Newtown High School in Newtown Square, PA.

The Tigers Radio Network is presented by the following sponsors:
Philly Pretzel Factory
United States Marine Corps
Marple Newtown Football Boosters Club
Marple Newtown Football Alumni Association

1st Quarter

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2nd Quarter

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3rd Quarter

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4th Quarter

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The Tigers Radio Network is a service of the Marple Newtown Football Boosters Club.

Contact the Tigers Radio Network at jma158@comcast.net.

Tigers Lose to Radnor 24-20

By Steve Scoleri
Tigers Radio Network

NEWTOWN SQUARE, PA - It was a controversial push off call to end the season as Marple Newtown loses to Radnor 24-20 with 23 seconds remaining on Senior Night. Marple finishes at 7-3 on the season and is left wondering who their playoff opponent might be next week.

The game did not start well for Marple as Ryan Duffy fumbled the opening kickoff that was recovered by Radnor’s Owen Hobson to set up nice field position for Radnor. Marple was able to hold Radnor to a 35-yard field goal by Berg Yepremian early in the first quarter. With 7:05 remaining in the first quarter, Kevin Johnson connected with Vince Christiana for a 15-yard touchdown. Ryan Duffy also had a 3-yard touchdown run with 4:46 remaining. In the second quarter, Radnor’s Derrik Adger has a 34-yard touchdown run with 6:21 remaining to put Marple up 13-10 at halftime.

There was no scoring in the third quarter as each team’s defense held each other. In the fourth quarter, Kevin Johnson kept the ball and ran for a 21-yard touchdown with 4:37 remaining. Radnor quarterback Alex Lundstrom threw a 31-yard touchdown to Rob McCurdy with 3:20 remaining. With 23 seconds remaining in the game, Alex Lundstrom hooked up with Rob McCurdy, again this time for a 20-yard touchdown and the game winner. Rob McCurdy appeared to have pushed off of Johnnie Watkins but nothing was called.

It was a heartbreaking way to end the season but Marple Newtown finished a terrific season and is headed to the playoffs. They will be on the road next week in the PIAA District One Class AAA playoffs.


Contact Steve Scoleri at sds5084@psu.edu.
Contact EyeOfTheTigersBlog.com at jma158@comcast.net.

TIGERS TAKE ONE STEP CLOSER TO THE POSTSEASON

By Steve Scoleri
Tigers Radio Network

ROSEMONT, PA - It was another dominating performance for the Marple Newtown Tigers as they defeated the Harriton Rams 56-8 on a mischief Friday night. Everything was clicking for the Tigers on the offensive and defensive sides of the ball as they were able to put away the Rams early.

In the first quarter, Kevin Johnson had a 1-yard touchdown run with 3:31 remaining to put Marple Newtown up 7-0 after the first quarter. The Tigers then ran away with the game and, showed like they have all year, how explosive this offense can be.

In the second quarter, Kevin Johnson started the scoring with a 2-yard touchdown run with 11:21 remaining. Carl Kasarsky caught a pass from Kevin Johnson and took it 50-yards for the touchdown with 9:17 remaining. Ryan Duffy had a 12-yard touchdown run with 5:05 remaining in the quarter. Ryan White also had a beautiful 40-yard touchdown run to close the scoring in the half with 1:36 remaining. The Tigers were up big at halftime leading the Rams 35-0.

Ryan Duffy continues to show that he is a dominating player on the offensive side of the ball. Duffy finished with 15 rushes for 134 yards and a touchdown against the Harriton Rams. Ryan Duffy is a hard runner who makes plays for this Marple Newtown offense. He is a vital part to this offense and he makes it click whenever he touches the ball.

The third quarter proved to be the Cimirrow Moat show as he was able to score twice in the quarter. His first score came on a 65-yard touchdown run up the sidelines using his speed with 6:00 remaining. The next score for Cimirrow Moat came on special teams where he was able to block a Rams punt, pick the ball up, and run it in from 15-yards out for the score. This came with 2:42 remaining to put the Tigers up 49-0 over the Rams. It was nice to see C-Moat get involved and make some nice plays on the field.

In the fourth quarter, Harriton was able to get on the score board when Nick Maguire had a 7-yard touchdown run with 6:03 remaining in the quarter. The Rams went for the two point conversion and were successful thanks to quarterback Patrick Moriarty running it in. Ryan Schollenberger had a nice quarter for the Tigers. He was able to break off a 60-yard run for the Tigers to give them nice field position. He then scored later in the drive with an 18-yard touchdown run to put the Tigers up 56-8.

This was a huge win for Marple Newtown to get them one step closer to the playoffs. Every win is huge for the stretch run to close out the season.

Next week the Tigers play their final regular season home game against Radnor. Marple looks to continue their great play toward a PIAA District One Class AAA playoff invitation.


Contact Steve Scoleri at sds5084@psu.edu.
Contact EyeOfTheTigersBlog.com at jma158@comcast.net.

TIGERS WREAK HAVOC OVER RAMS, 56-8

By Chris McSweeney
Tigers Radio Network

ROSEMONT, PA - The Marple Newtown Tigers displayed total dominance tonight against the Harriton Rams. The Rams proved no match for the Tigers right from the start. Marple Newtown displayed a balanced offense and a dominant defense that continued to tackle well and frustrate the Rams offense.

The first score of the game came on a 1-yard touchdown run by quarterback Kevin Johnson with 3:31 remaining in the first quarter. This would be the only score in the first quarter and Marple would lead 7-0 going into the second. In the second, Johnson got on the board again with another quarterback sneak for a touchdown, this time it was for two yards, and the score came with 11:21 remaining. The scoring continued in the second when Carl Kasarsky caught a beautiful pass and run for a 50-yard score. This score came with 9:17 remaining; the next score for the Tigers came with 5:05 remaining when Ryan Duffy ran for a 12-yard score. The Tigers scored again when Ryan White ran for a fantastic, darting, 40-yard run with 1:36 left. The Tigers would lead the Rams 35-0 at the half.

The third quarter brought more of the same with Cimirrow Moat getting on the scoreboard twice. This was a fantastic quarter for Moat who scored twice, first with a 65-yard blistering touchdown run up the sidelines. The next score came when Moat broke through on special teams, blocked a Harriton punt, picked up the ball and ran it for a score from 15-yards out. This would put the Tigers up 49-0 after three.

In the fourth, the Rams finally got on the board when Nick Maguire scored on a 7-yard touchdown run. The Rams went for two and converted when Patrick Moriarity ran it in from his quarterback position. The final score of the game came from the Tigers running back Ryan Schollenberger, who carried the ball for 18-yards with three minutes remaining in the game.

Overall it was a very dominant game from the Tigers stand point. Marple Newtown played great tonight whether it was offense, defense, or special teams. Adam Fender was brilliant tonight connecting on all of his extra point kicks as he went 8 for 8.

Next week, the Tigers will play their final regular season home game against Radnor. Marple Newtown will look to continue their winning streak and tremendous play toward a PIAA District One Class AAA playoff invitation.


Contact Chris McSweeney at cem5053@psu.edu.
Contact EyeOfTheTigersBlog.com at jma158@comcast.net.

White Proves He is King in Victory Over Royals

By Chris McSweeney
Tigers Radio Network

UPPER DARBY, PA - The Marple Newtown Tigers defeated the Upper Darby Royals last Friday to put their season record to 6-2. This record sets up the Tigers to finish strong and hopefully enter the postseason playoff picture. The Tigers defeated the Royals in Upper Darby 23-0. It was a dominant win that saw the Tigers defense really kick it into high gear and come out with a shutout.

Ryan White continued his fantastic season from the running back position scoring twice in the game. The first of his two touchdowns came in the first quarter with 11:25 remaining on the clock. White ran the ball for 33 yards on the score further cementing himself as the big play back on the team and showcasing his speed and eagerness to get into the end zone. The touchdown party continued for Ryan White as he was on the end of a beautiful touchdown throw of 14 yards from Kevin Johnson with 5:48 remaining. These scores would give Marple Newtown a 13-0 edge after one quarter. Ryan White had an amazing night rushing the ball; he surpassed 200 yards on the ground ending up with 207 on 13 carries he also caught two passes for 23 yards. He is gaining confidence every Friday night and continues to showcase his football talents on a weekly basis. This personal performance rated as one of the best in the league on the night. Ryan Duffy his rushing partner continued his great season with more than 100 yards on the ground.

In the second quarter there was only one score. Adam Fender, the Tigers excellent place kicker was able to make up for an earlier extra point mishap. Fender stepped up to attempt a 32 yard field goal and drilled it through the uprights. This gave the Tigers a 16 point lead at halftime and the shut out by the defense was still intact.

In the second half, there was only one score to report. In the third quarter, quarterback Kevin Johnson continued his steady and confident play at the position. He stepped back and threw a 28 yard touchdown pass to Vince Christiana with 7:11 remaining in the quarter. This would be the final tally for the Tigers on the night and ultimately the final tally of the whole game.

The Tigers were challenged in the fourth quarter to keep their shutout intact and they stepped up to the challenge brilliantly. With the Royals finally getting it close to the goaline the Tigers were forced to tighten their chin straps and really dig deep if they wanted to post their second shutout on the season. With the defense facing a fourth and goal, everyman stepped up their game and was able to stop the Royals in the dying seconds of the game. Every player reacted with a sense of achievement and success, the shutout meant a lot to the Tigers. The Marple Newtown defense was led on Friday night by Vince Christiana with 7 tackles and by Brian Kelly who tallied up 6 tackles.

The Tigers are a very good team and look to continue their away success as they take on Harriton next week. With the playoff picture starting to take shape the Tigers need to continue to play the way they are playing and keep their eyes on the prize. Coach Gionta will have them playing hard at practice this week and keep the team heading in the right direction.


Contact Chris McSweeney at cem5053@psu.edu.
Contact EyeOfTheTigersBlog.com at jma158@comcast.net.

TIGERS BLANK ROYALS ON THE ROAD

By Steve Scoleri
Tigers Radio Network

UPPER DARBY, PA - The wet and rainy elements could not stop Marple Newtown’s dominating performance over Upper Darby. Marple Newtown was able to shut Upper Darby out 23-0, improving to 6-2 on the season.

The scoring started with Ryan White running a 33-yard touchdown run with 11:25 remaining to put Marple up 6-0. With 5:48 remaining in the quarter, Kevin Johnson threw a beautiful 14-yard touchdown pass to Ryan White to give Marple the 13-0 edge over Upper Darby.

In the second quarter, Adam Fender was able to cap off a drive by kicking a 32-yard field goal to put Marple up 16-0 at half time.

In the third quarter, Kevin Johnson threw a 28-yard touchdown pass to Vince Christiana with 7:11 remaining to give Marple the 23-0 lead over Upper Darby.

The fourth quarter did not have any scoring but Marple’s defense came up huge to stop Upper Darby from scoring at the end of the game. On fourth down Upper Darby could not punch it in from the one yard line. The defense was able to close out the game with a shutout.

After coming off of a tough loss last week at home against Garnet Valley, Marple was able to bounce back strong and defeat Upper Darby on the road. Marple looks to continue their playoff bound season by hitting the road once again to play Harriton next week.


Contact Steve Scoleri at sds5084@psu.edu.
Contact EyeOfTheTigersBlog.com at jma158@comcast.net.