Great Valley eases by undermanned Phoenixville, 38-0

August 26, 2016

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PHOENIXVILLE >> Great Valley functioned on all cylinders against shorthanded Phoenixville in opening the 2016 football season with a 38-0 victory over host Phoenixville in non-league action at Washington Field Friday night.

Led by veteran quarterback Rob Geiss and veteran running back Mark DeRobertis, the Patriots used both running and passing attack in beating the Phantoms on a hot and humid evening.

Coach Dan Ellis used multiple linemen and backs to help keep people fresh on the hot night. Meanwhile, numerous players also stood out defensively to help the Patriots pitch a shutout on opening night.

DeRobertis and Geiss each scored two touchdowns as Great Valley took a 35-0 halftime lead and put the running clock in motion.

“We talked to the kids about being physical and playing physical, and they did a good job,” said Ellis.

Phoenixville's Shyheim Abernathy looks to break away from Great Valley's Ryan Hubley. (Barry Taglieber - For Digital First Media) — Phoenixville’s Shyheim Abernathy looks to break away from Great Valley’s Ryan Hubley. (Barry Taglieber – For Digital First Media)

Phoenixville played minus seven players, including five starters, for disciplinary reasons. The Phantoms were also minus head coach Evan Breisblatt so assistant coach Mark Fisher directed the team.

DeRobertis opened the scoring with a 6-yard touchdown reception on a shovel pass from Geiss. Geiss then scored on a 7-yard keeper play as the Patriots ended the first quarter with a 14-0 lead.

DeRobertis also scored on a 1-yard run. Alex Crouse had 19-yard TD run, and Geiss had an 8-yard scoring run.

Placekicker Pat Sauer booted five placements as well as a 21-yard field goal in the fourth period.

DeRobertis totaled 122 yards on 10 carries, all in the first half along with his TD reception.

Geiss picked up 90 yards on eight tries and also completed 7 of 12 passes for 90 yards.

Phoenixville workhorse running back/linebacker Matt Garcia rushed for 113 yards on 20 attempts.

“He had a very good night,” said Fisher. “I am proud of how he did until we took him out in the third quarter.”

He was also happy with other veterans like Nasir Green for his all-around play, veteran lineman Jon Miller and sophomore Connor Patania, who made the start at quarterback.

Great Valley also got some good work from the likes of lineman Miles Macaleer, Erik Weissman, lineman Xander Utecht and linebacker Noah Johnson.