St. Augustine- What a difference a year makes. Last year, Murray went undefeated in the regular season losing in the championship game to Landrum. The 2017 defending champion Gamble Rogers lost in the playoffs to Landrum. This year, Gamble Rogers showed that they may be closer to returning to the championship, defeating rival Murray, 14-10.
Led by WR/DB Frankie Morabito, who hauled in a 25-yard touchdown reception from Quarterback Cason Blanco. Morabito also had an interception on defense and kicked two extra points contributing in all phases.
“It’s a great way to start the season,” said GRMS football coach Matt Potak. “We have a lot of work to do but I’m proud of the way our kids responded to adversity.”
The Stingrays took an early 7-0 halftime lead but struggled offensively. Holding calls and other penalties kept the drives short. Murray was able to rally, converting on a long pass play to take an 8-7 fourth quarter lead. The bulldogs also forced a safety on the ensuing possession, taking a 10-7 lead with 3:35 remaining in the game.
A big play occurred when the Stingrays kicked off. Morabito onside kicked and Linebacker Devin Blocker recovered, giving the Stingrays back the possession.
“That onsides kick recovery was huge, ” said Potak. “Coach Ron Evans told Frankie to onside it to try and make something happen, it paid off big time.”
The Stingrays went down the field with explosive runs from Zander Martin and Julian Quintero. Facing a third down, Blanco scrambled and completed a 23 yard pass to Jason Watson. Watson was brought down at the 1-yard line. On the next play, Quintero scored on a Quarterback sneak.
Defensively, the Stingrays held Murray to under 100-yards of total offense. Defensive Coordinator Ron Evans relied heavily on a strong 4-3 alignment, while mixing in other fronts with different personnel groups. Linebackers Kani Harris, Joseph Soto and Logan Cline all contributed.
“Defense was phenomenal tonight,” said Potak. ”
Gamble Rogers (1-0) will take on Fruit Cove (1-0) next week in a battle of the unbeaten.
St. Johns Middle School Football Scoreboard
