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HASTINGS-ON-HUDSON, N.Y. Like good neighbors who share a property line, the Hastings and Dobbs Ferry football teams get along well until theres a boundary dispute or a big football game like the one that will be played Saturday at 1:30 at Hastings' Reynolds Field.
The Eagles (1-1) come in flying off a 42-0 victory over Valhalla, while the Yellow Jackets (1-1) were rolled over by defending Class C champion Bronxville 42-6 last Saturday. Dobbs Ferrys loss also came at the hands of the Broncos, who pulled out a 15-14 squeaker on opening day.
Hastings lacks size along the line, but has some quickness in the backfield with quarterback Joe Tarricone and running back Robert Hevia, who also throws the option pass. The Jackets had 79 yards passing and 62 rushing against Bronxville and will need to do better against Dobbs Ferry. Matt Adipietro caught a touchdown pass for the Jackets lone score.
Dobbs Ferry quarterback Spencer Avalos is a threat to pass or run and has several key weapons in the backfield, including sophomore fullback Tim Soave, Eddie Ritch and John Yozzo-Scaperrotta. Matt Fata is Avalos prime receiver. The Jackets can move the ball, but had trouble stopping Bronxvilles powerful running game. The Eagles managed to hold the Broncos backfield for three quarters on opening day, but the heat and humidity seemed to sap them and Bronxville scored twice in the fourth quarter to win.
The win at Valhalla should give the Eagles some confidence. Dobbs Ferrys defense should be able to stop Hastings and the offense has enough punch to move the ball on the ground and in the air. The Yellow Jackets must use the clock and keep the ball away from Avalos and the Eagles offense.
No one, however, can predict what may happen when neighbors meet on a football field. Emotions run high and the game means more than a regular-season contest.
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