Harriton earns 1st win of season in LM township gridiron battle

Rosemont >> In the annual Lower Merion Township high school football battle, Harriton won its first game of the season in front of the home crowd Sept. 27, downing Lower Merion 20-0.
“The energy and encouragement of the alumni fired up our players before they took the field,” said Harriton head coach Justin Mellor. “It was an incredible team victory last night, in which all areas – offense, defense and special teams – played well and contributed to the victory.”
Mellor was particularly pleased with the Rams’ aggressive defense, which limited Lower Merion to 77 yards (16 passing and 61 rushing).
“We’re gaining experience on defense, and the guys played with an attack mindset and swarmed the ball,” said Mellor. “The defensive line of Nick Tevis, Shane Sullivan, Matt DiCicco, and Gianfranco Colella played tough and created many negative yardage plays knocking Lower Merion off schedule.
“The linebackers of Max Copley, Rowan Teran, Ben Fisher, Jackson Smith and Josh Smith are getting more confident with their reads and techniques and were able to play faster.
“The back end of our defense – Seth Fliszar, Teddy Molineaux, Kyle Barnes, Sam DeCecco, and Daral Cresswell – were strong in [pass] coverage and led to several sacks because the Lower Merion quarterback had to hold the ball.”
The victory improved the Rams’ record to 1-4 (1-3 Central League). Lower Merion fell to 0-5 (0-4 Central League).
Molineaux, Cresswell, Copley and Fliszar proved to be potent two-way players against Lower Merion, with some key runs and pass receptions, with Fliszar making a couple of tough catches for first downs. Molineaux ran for 79 yards on 14 carries, and scored two touchdowns.

Harriton quarterback Will Brannau completed 10 of 13 passes for 144 yards and two touchdowns.
“The toughness of our quarterback, Will Brannau, also inspired the team,” said Mellor.
Mellor said, “The support of the student, teachers, and administration was incredible all week as everyone is excited for an inter-township game where they know many faces on the other side. The spirt week, put together by the student leaders under the mentor ship of Mr. Joe DiPaul, was incredible and really helped the team focus and prepare all week.
“Also, a shot out to the cheerleader and the band for their energy and encouragement. It really was an incredible environment all week and the players and coaches totally fed off of the energy permeating the school.”