Entering Week 2 with a 0-1 record after a tough loss to Shamokin, Pottsville aimed to make a strong statement. Meanwhile, Jim Thorpe came into the game 1-0, fresh off a big win over Palmerton in Week 1.
The Crimson Tide wasted no time making their mark, receiving the opening kickoff and marching down the field. Pottsville's Juleon Bainbridge capped off the drive with a 2-yard touchdown run, followed by a successful extra point, giving the Tide an early 7-0 lead.
However, Jim Thorpe responded quickly. On their ensuing drive, Olympians’ Josh Louk powered his way into the end zone with a 2-yard touchdown run, and the extra point tied the game at 7-7.
Pottsville regained control late in the first quarter with a 63-yard touchdown pass, closing the quarter ahead 14-7. The second quarter saw Pottsville dominate on both sides of the ball. With 9 minutes left in the half, Andrew Allen punched in a 3-yard touchdown run to extend the lead to 21-7.
Shortly after, Pottsville capitalized on an interception, with Bainbridge scoring his second touchdown of the night on a 2-yard run. The Crimson Tide’s defense held strong, forcing another turnover and setting up another touchdown with just 27 seconds left in the first half. By halftime, Pottsville had surged ahead to a commanding 34-7 lead.
Pottsville continued their dominance into the 3rd quarter. With just over 7 minutes left, Evan Galavage broke through with a 9-yard rushing touchdown, widening the gap to 41-7. Galavage wasn’t finished, as he found a seam and exploded for a 54-yard touchdown run, giving Pottsville a 48-7 lead with 5 minutes remaining in the third quarter.
The Crimson Tide’s defense kept the Olympians at bay for the remainder of the game, securing a 48-7 victory. The win marked a successful home opener and the first win in the Mike Brennan era for Pottsville.
Jim Thorpe, now 1-1 on the season, will look to bounce back next week as they host Blue Mountain. Pottsville, also at 1-1, aims to build on their momentum when they host Tamaqua in Week 3.
Photo by Jocelyn Barrett/Danie Mae Photography LLC