Eagles blank Falcons in final game of season

Posted

The Arlington football team played with heart Friday against DC West to earn its third win in the last game of the season. The Eagles defeated the Falcons 36-0.
“We've been looking for that extra step all year. We finally hit it tonight and it all came together. It worked so well,” senior quarterback Josh Miller said. “Everyone gave their heart. They knew that this was the last game of the season and we had to give it our all. It was a fun last game.”
DC West looked as though it would score on the game's opening drive. However, Arlington senior Jesse Thompson caused a fumble that was recovered by Caden Podany on the 18-yard line — just one of several defensive stops by the Eagles.
Arlington later capitalized on the turnover as Thompson ran in an 8-yard touchdown and added the two-point conversion for an 8-0 lead. Thompson also scored the last touchdown of the game — a 16-yard run.
In the second quarter, on third and long, Miller found junior Logan Kaup for a 30-yard pass play to the 28-yard line. A few plays later, Miller rumbled 18 yards for the touchdown and a 14-0 lead at halftime.
The Falcons appeared to stop the Eagles on the opening drive of the third quarter, however, a roughing the punter penalty put the ball back into the Arlington's hands.
Thompson took advantage of the mistake and ripped off a 50-yard run, breaking several tackles before being pushed out of bounds at the 5-yard line.
That set up a 5-yard TD pass from Miller to Nick Smith. Thompson added the two-point conversion for a 22-0 lead.
Arlington's defense came up big again on DC West's next drive as Smith recovered a fumble caused by Dustin Kirk on the Falcon 21-yard line. On the very next play, Miller found Kaup for the touchdown.
“Our kids just played four quarters of football,” said coach Colter Mattson, who wrapped up his first season as the Eagles head coach. “They showed up and it goes into the preparation of the week. They were prepared, they had a great week of practice. They just came so far this year and I think we were just firing on all cylinders as a team. They all played together and played well and they all did their jobs.”
Mattson complimented his seniors — Miller, Thompson, Jacob Hoefs and Jake Bartosh — who led a young Arlington team.
“When I look at those four, all of those four, I can think of work ethic,” Mattson said. “I don't think any of them missed a day in the weight room. Josh Miller is a kid who is going to out work anybody in the state. Jesse Thompson is right there with him. Jacob Hoefs and Jake Bartosh they bring that same attitude.”

Arlington Football