Post publication update:
North Reading defeats Hamilton-Wenham 42-6 (Sept. 26)
By DAN ZIMMERMAN
DEDHAM — Last Friday night, the North Reading football team switched gears from a passing game, which they implemented in their season opening win over Greater Lowell, to a scheme that featured the run. While the game plan was starkly different, the result was similar as the Hornets pounded non-league opponent Dedham, 41-8.
Limited to 41-yards on 7-carries in Week 1 action, senior tailback Otto Indelicato delivered a far more significant performance in Dedham, furnishing a pair of early TDs that set the tone for the remainder of the contest.
“It felt great to get back to carrying the ball and contributing,” said Indelicato, who amassed 74-yards on 11 tries. “In a game that’s more run-based, where I can run up the middle, it’s nice because I can benefit from those kick-out blocks from the offensive line.”
While the Dedham secondary certainly seemed susceptible to a throwing game, it was obvious from the start that the North Reading coaching staff sought to develop their ground game. Indelicato did not disappoint, with TD rushes of 5 and 9-yards in the first quarter to put his team in front, 15-0. Early in the second, a new face visited the end zone to add to the Hornet lead.
“Yes, it felt great,” said junior Desi Brown, commenting on his first rushing TD, a 14-yarder. “The line blocked amazingly and I was able to cut off a block and get in to score.”
“We do have a few different guys who can run the ball,” said North Reading Coach Ed Blum, who improved to 2-0 on the young season. “Otto has been consistent and Desi is getting good reps. Brady Eng also got his first touchdown which was awesome. We were happy for him.”
The Hornets scored twice more, just before the half. QB Jason Berry added his fifth TD toss of the season, finding sophomore receiver Ian Baker from the 12. Baker was earlier instrumental in the Hornets first score, hauling in a 50-yard pass on the opening play of the game to reach the red zone. Later, premier wide receiver Gavin Brady put it out of reach at 35-0 with a 78-yard punt return.
North Reading senior tailback Eng wrapped up the night’s scoring with a 22-yard TD ramble at the tail end of the third frame. The North Reading faithful, filling the visitor section to capacity, watched many of the Dedham fans depart early. Those who left missed a 63-yard linkup from Marauder QB Liam Dowling to Josh Stivaletta to snap the shutout.
Dedham Marauders football, once a highly competitive member of the Bay State Conference, has faced a steady decline over the last decade. The program, which transferred to the Tri-Valley League several years ago, fails to draw athletes. This year’s squad features only twenty-five and while there is nothing in place, there have been whispers of the team becoming part of a cooperative club.
North Reading football, meanwhile, is thriving and winning by wide margins, a total of 75-15 in the first two outings alone. The scoring disparity has afforded Blum and his staff with a valuable opportunity to put the second string to work. Sophomore QB Michael Corvino and freshman tailback Nick Arena, among others, saw fourth quarter action in each game.
“Our focus each week is playing at the highest level that we’re able and developing consistency,” said Blum. “It doesn’t matter who we are facing – we know that teams will bring their best to us. We have to be ready for each and every play.”
North Reading continues their series of road games and will travel to face 1-1 Hamilton-Wenham tomorrow night at 6:30 p.m. The Generals were most recently defeated by Triton, 36-18.