This past weekend, the Foresters were home to take on Lawrence University at Farwell Field. Playing perhaps their most impressive game of the season, the Foresters were able to finally put a “W” on the board. Coach Cat expressed his happiness with the outcome, saying, “I am excited that our team took the next step this week and got our first win of the season. I couldn't be more pleased with the result. It was a long time coming, and our players have worked extremely hard each week of the season. It was only a matter of time before we pushed through.”
When asked about the keys to winning the game, Coach Cat said, “Our first half. Period. We haven't started a game all season like we did on Saturday. Our first drive offensively really set the tone. We were able to run the ball at will, and were able to convert a few third downs that led to our first touchdown. In the first half, offensively, defensively, and on special teams, we were really spectacular. Offensively, our offensive line and quarterback Pete Scaffidi really got comfortable and in a rhythm. I think that an established rhythm makes it easier for the offensive line.”
He credits the offensive line with doing an incredible job, saying, “Our offensive line gave up zero sacks and gained over 200 yards rushing for the first time all season. They are led by juniors Gil Munoz, Dan McSparin, and Sal Perales. The leadership of those upper-class guys has been really exciting to see grow. Our center, freshman Tom Mitchell, was ALL OVER the field. He was getting down field and making big blocks all the way through the whistle.”
Sophomore quarterback Pete Scaffidi started for his second game of the season. Last week, Coach Cat commented on his performance against Monmouth College, saying, “Pete did a commendable job preparing this week, and I am excited to see his continued growth. I am confident that he will grow from this game. It was his first start in the MWC and I think he had a chance to see what the true level of the competition is.” After this week’s game, Coach Cat said, “Pete had his second start this week. I know that the Monmouth game was a great learning experience for him. It also displayed to our coaches which parts of our offense Pete was most comfortable with. There is no doubt in my mind that the second half of the Monmouth game helped us put together this week’s game plan, even more so than our film study of Lawrence. I am excited about some of the plays that Pete made with both his arm, and his feet. He gives us a nice double threat combination at quarterback.”
Perhaps one of the most impressive players on the field this past week was freshman defensive back Ed Dobernig. On Saturday, he had 5 tackles and a return for a touchdown in the fourth quarter. Commenting on Dobernig, Coach Cat said, “Eddie played a great three quarters. After film study, I am sure he'll agree. His two interceptions in the fourth quarter were pivotal to us closing out the game. His return for a touchdown is the second return for a touchdown by the defense this semester. I am hopeful that this will be one of many more in Eddie's career. One of the unnoticed things that Eddie also did on Saturday was that he tackled VERY VERY well. He made a couple of big third down plays on tackles that got our offense the ball back.”
After reviewing film on Sunday, Coach Cat said, “It was great for our guys to eliminate the 0 in the win/loss column. I know that the coaches and the players all slept better last night. I hope that this win, and the feeling that comes with it, will serve as motivation for wanting another win against Knox this upcoming week.”
The last home game of the season takes place this coming Saturday as Knox comes to Farwell Field! We will be celebrating our Forester seniors and their parents. We hope to see you all there!
--Elise Beckman, contributing author
(Photo Credit: Scott Sanford '14)
