Preps

Springstead 35, River Ridge 21

By DEREK J. LaRIVIERE, Times Correspondent
Published October 20, 2007

SPRING HILL - Springstead has been a mystery to both its fans and coaching staff for much of this season, and the team's game against River Ridge on Friday night was no exception.

The Eagles were able to defeat the Knights at Booster Stadium, but for much of the first half, the game was in doubt.

"We made our share of mental mistakes out there tonight," Springstead coach Bill Vonada said, "but we also showed again what we are capable of when we don't stop ourselves."

River Ridge (1-6), a team that has only one victory since 2004, came out firing against what looked like an unprepared Eagle defense. Quarterback Blake Spinks carved up the secondary for 202 yards on 14-of-28 passing and three touchdowns.

His passing had the Knights tied at 14 with the home team with 2:12 remaining in the first half. Springstead (4-3) held strong behind the dominant running attack of tailback Mike Greco (227 total yards). With 148 yards on the ground in the first half alone, Greco anchored the offense.

"Not only did Mike break a lot of tackles out there," Vonada said, "but he showed (the coaches) how much he is improving when it comes to ball security."

Even with that unstoppable ground game, the Eagles didn't pull away until the third quarter. The defense began to hold down River Ridge's offense - surrendering only seven points in the second half.

Springstead quarterback James Mahla (three passing touchdowns, one rushing touchdown) made necessary plays in the crucial situations to slam the door on the Knights' upset bid. His 11-yard rush to the goal line set up the go-ahead touchdown on Springstead's last long drive.

[Last modified October 20, 2007, 00:02:08]