Stingy defense, solid running game leads Western Reserve past Crestview, 27-9
BERLIN CENTER — Western Reserve was one of a handful of teams to get the 2024 high school football season off to an early start, as the Blue Devils entertained Crestview Thursday evening on Military Night.
Western Reserve combined a stingy defensive effort with an impressive rushing performance on offense to record a 27-9 win over Crestview.
“I think early on they (the Rebels) were moving the football and I think stiffening the run defense and getting them into things they don’t want to do (was a key),” said the Western Reserve coach John Armeni. “They have three or four guys that can carry the football well. We wanted to tighten up that run defense and give our offense some opportunities because we’re trying to find our identity early in the year, running and throwing a little bit.”
Western Reserve spotted the Rebels a 7-0 lead when Rebel star running back Max Hawkins, who ended with 105 yards on the evening, bolted three yards to score midway through the second quarter.
But Western Reserve quarterback Chris Pater took over the game at that point. Pater rushed for 109 yards and accounted for all four Blue Devil touchdowns. His 54-yard scoring run around left end early in the fourth quarter all but sealed the win for the Blue Devils. Western Reserve’s Jack Darney also hauled in a five-yard touchdown pass from Pater.
“Honestly, I give that (touchdown credit) to my line and my receivers blocking downfield,” said Pater.
Western Reserve’s defense held Crestview’s offense scoreless during the final three quarters. The Blue Devils’ lone points scored in the second half occurred on a third-quarter safety.
“If I could name every single player on the team, I would, but our front and our linebackers stood out tonight to me,” praised Pater who appreciated the Western Reserve defense keeping Crestview off the field and providing extra scoring opportunities for the Blue Devils.
Western Reserve led in total offense, 250-177.
Crestview will host Southern Local in another big independent football game next Friday evening.
Western Reserve will go up against a new team on its schedule next Saturday when the Blue Devils play at Trinity.
For Thursday’s game, Western Reserve players wore special camo jerseys honoring the United States Military. There was also a special presentation before kickoff.