Plays of the Week – Week Thirteen

By: HSSN Staff
Tuesday, November 28, 2017 | 10:24 PM

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While the 3A through 6A Championship games took center stage last week at Heinz Field, this week, it was the 1A and 2A title bouts at Robert Morris University that were in the spotlight. Meanwhile, a pair of WPIAL teams, Gateway and Pine-Richland, advanced in the PIAA postseason.

1. Jeannette 35, Imani Christian 34

The highly-anticipated rematch between Eastern Conference foes did not disappoint, as the Jayhawks and Saints battled to the wire. Jeannette, sparked by Robert Kennedy, overcame a fourth-quarter deficit to pull ahead, 35-28. The Saints scored in the final minutes, though, and attempted to take the lead with a two-point try. On the attempt, Imani’s Sam Fairley took a handoff on the sweep, and then threw to the end zone. Kennedy stepped in front of the intended target, however, and intercepted the ball to seal the Jayhawks’ victory.

The Trib Live High School Sports Network’s Ed Troup and Mike Azadian have the call, with Jess Levo providing the videography, of the Jeannette win, which tied the mark for victories in WPIAL history:

2. Washington 37, Steel Valley 10

The Ironmen entered the title game with a 26-game winning streak, and an opportunity to repeat as WPIAL champs. The Little Prexies had different plans, though, as Washington turned in a dominant second half en route to the triumph. The play that changed the game came on special teams in the third quarter, as Washington’s Isaiah Schoonmaker blocked the punt by Amonte Strothers. As the ball fluttered in the air, Dan Walker caught it and returned it for a 40-yard touchdown, staking Washington to a 17-10 edge.

The Trib Live High School Sports Network’s Matt Vandriak and Steve Nagler detail the play, while Chris Lacker provides the videography, that enabled Washington to claim its seventh district title.

3. Pine-Richland 49, State College 21

The Rams had dominated nearly every game this season, to the point that the outcome was already decided by the half. Against State College, however, the contest was deadlocked after the first 24 minutes. That quickly changed in the third frame, though, as the Rams recovered a State College onside attempt, and just a few play later, took the lead for good. Quarterback Phil Jurkovec connected with Dawson Goltz on a 39-yard score to put the Rams ahead, 21-14.

The Trib Live High School Sports Network’s Paul Paterra and Lou Rood provide the audio of the fantastic connection that helped Pine-Richland advance to the PIAA semifinals:

4. Gateway 49, Hollidaysburg 30

Much like the Rams, the Gators had their hands full in the first half of their state playoff tilt. Tied with the Golden Tigers midway through the second quarter, Gateway called upon its prolific duo to make the key play. QB Brady Walker hooked up with receiver Courtney Jackson for a 53-yard touchdown, allowing the Gators to take command of the contest.

The Trib Live High School Sports Network’s Sean Meyers and Kyle Dawson have the call of the big play that led Gateway to victory:

Tags: Gateway, Hollidaysburg, Imani Christian, Jeannette, Washington