The Everett High football team showcased its potent running game in a solid 17-7 victory over St. John’s Prep Saturday on the Eagles’ home field in Danvers.
Junior running back Manny Asprilla rushed for 106 yards and two touchdowns on 17 carries while sophomore Vondell Langston had 12 carries for 71 yards to help Everett improved its record to 2-1.
Coach John DiBiaso’s Crimson Tide took the field looking to bounce back from a loss to Dracut last week. Asprilla launched Everett on the road to victory with a 65-yard jaunt to the end zone late in the first quarter. Freshman placekicker Gilly DeSoua booted the PAT to make it 7-0.
DeSouza then connected on a 20-yard field goal before last year’s nemesis, George Sessoms, scored from 48 yards out to close the Tide lead to 10-7 at the break.
Everett’s defense was tested in the third quarter but the Tide came up with some key stops to maintain their three-point advantage.
Quarterback Jonathan DiBiaso engineered a scoring drive in the fourth quarter. Both Langston and Apsrilla made key contributions to the game-sealing effort. Langston displayed his speed and elusiveness on a 24-yard gain. Asprilla caught a 19-yard pass from DiBiaso and then rushed for a five-yard touchdown. DeSouza booted his second PAT to make it 17-7.
TIDE NOTEBOOK
With senior tailback Jean Bourdeau sidelined by an injury, the duo of Asprilla and Langston stepped up to help deliver a victory. The offensive line blocked very well and both backs took advantage of the open real estate to account for 177 yards rushing.
Jonathan DiBiaso was 6-for-12 for 102 yards. Matt Costello continues to impress at the wide receiver position, making five catches for 83 yards. The Sunday Herald photo illustrates Costello’s athleticism as he makes a diving catch.
Dracut obviously had an emotional letdown after its big win over Everett last week. The Middies were defeated by Central Catholic, 25-21, Friday night.
Medford stayed unbeaten with a 35-14 win over Bishop Fenwick. Xaverian won its 1-2 showdown with Brockton, 14-7.
Everett has a bye week and returns to action on Saturday, Oct. 10 against Boston College High School for the annual Homecoming Game at Everett Memorial Stadium. BC High ended Everett’s season a year ago in the semifinals of the Division 1 playoffs.