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DOBBS FERRY, N.Y. The home standing Dobbs Ferry Eagles, winners of two straight games and improving with each week, will host the explosive defending Class D state champion Tuckahoe Tigers Friday night at 7 p.m.
The Eagles (2-1) are coming off a decisive 37-0 victory over neighboring Hastings, a team that had won three straight games over Dobbs Ferry in a that longtime rivalry and would like to continue their winning ways.
Each team has suffered its only loss to Bronxville. The Eagles wasted a 14-0 fourth-quarter lead on opening day, losing 15-14 in the final three minutes, while Bronxville topped Tuckahoe 32-14 last Saturday. Tuckahoes only loss last year came at the hands of the Broncos.
Dobbs Ferry has been rolling since the Bronxville loss, shutting out Valhalla and Hastings 42-0 and 37-0 respectively. Quarterback Spencer Avalos, who completed 3 of 3 passes for 75 yards against Hastings, leads the way. The Eagles backfield, led by Eddie Ritch and Brian Gardner, complied 345 rushing yards in last weeks win. Ritch gained 130 yards and raced 40 yards for a score and Gardner rushed for 125 yards and a 55-yard touchdown against Hastings.
Tigers sophomore quarterback Mike Castracucco has been growing up quickly with each performance and will throw the ball with confidence. He completed 6 of 14 for 42 yards and a touchdown to prime receiver Gary Moss. His backfield, led by speedy Shyheim Nixon and fullback Nick Reisman, can move the ball on the ground.
Dobbs Ferry head coach Jim Moran predicted in summer practice that his Eagles would grow in confidence each week. The tough opening-day loss to Bronxville seems to have had a positive effect.
The Class D state champions are taking last weeks loss as a learning experience as they go against another Class C opponent in Dobbs Ferry (2-1). The Eagles need a win here to keep their momentum.
Will the Eagles be able to defeat the state Class D champion Tigers?
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