Pride claims homecoming game against Eagles

In Salesian High School’s homecoming game Saturday, the Pride beat the Kennedy Eagles 42-5.

The Pride, led by running back Marciel Malic’s three touchdowns and 179 yards, took an early lead with two touchdowns in the first quarter and, by halftime, they led 35-0. The Eagles’ points came from a field goal and an intentional safety by Salesian in the second half of the game.

Kennedy’s closest chance came in the second quarter, when Kennedy senior  Kenny Walker dashed 80 yards from the Kennedy 20-yard line to the end zone. Everyone on the Kennedy benches stood and cheered wildly — until they realized that the touchdown did not count. An audible groan could be heard through the audience as the referees announced that Walker went out of bounds while avoiding a block on the 15 yard line.

Kennedy’s kicker, junior Irving Matamoros, proved to be one of their most valuable players, nailing a 42-yard field goal and consistently placing the ball within the five yard line during kick-offs and punts.

Eagles coach Mack Carminer admitted that it was an “off-day” for his team, but noted that it was the last preseason game and that he is looking forward to playing next week against Moreau-Catholic.

“We didn’t play as well as we were capable of playing,” he said. “We’re going to go back to practice and get a higher intensity.”

The Pride have won all four of their games this year, and go on the road next Friday to play McClymonds, which has won three straight after a 56-0 win over Richmond on Saturday.

Salesian’s side of the bleachers were packed, but there were plenty of Eagles fans in attendance as well. The event featured a bounce house, snack shack and DJ who set up his equipment on the sidelines.

The well-rehearsed Pride cheerleaders performed at halftime, completing lifts and gymnastic tumbles across the turf. However, the Kennedy supporters gave the Salesian cheerleaders a run for their money, holding handmade signs and waving red pom-poms throughout the game.

Sister Mary, a nun from Salesian, appeared in a black football jersey at halftime.  She made a deal with her students that for each five yards she could push one of the team’s new blocking sleds, the school would have a “free dress day” where they didn’t have to wear a uniform. Sister Mary managed to get the block 15 yards down the field with the help of a cheering audience.