Chad Washington
WEST PALM BEACH, FLA – Cardinal Newman advanced to 3-0 after a blowout win over John Carroll.
The Crusaders won the toss and elected to defer, but Cardinal Newman’s defense had others plans. On John Carroll’s opening drive, Janarro Sumpter came away with an interception, setting up the Crusaders’ offense. The turnover led to a touchdown from Justin Barerra on the pass from Pedro Martinez to put Newman up 7-0.
Cardinal Newman’s defense continued to make plays, on the next drive, Cooper Clark recovered a fumble to give the Crusaders another opportunity. Pedro Martinez then connected with Logan Stepp for a touchdown, extending the lead to 14-0 in the first quarter.
John Carroll continued to struggle as bad snap on the punt gave Newman possession at the one-yard line, and Sumpter ran in on the first play to push the lead even further.
The Crusaders added another defensive turnover when Riley Wallace recovered a fumble. On the very next play, Logan Stepp found the end zone again, putting Newman firmly in control.
John Carroll later turned the ball over on downs, but got it right back with a Caleb Phillips INT.
However Newman’s defense once again came up big as Janarro Sumpter picked off John Carroll, returning it for a touchdown. The pick-six was Sumpter’s second interception and second touchdown of the game.
Right before halftime, Sumpter added another rushing touchdown as Cardinal Newman continued to pile on the points and led 42-0 at the break.
Newman carried its dominant performance into the second half, adding a field goal that put the game into a running-clock situation. Donevon Richardson then found the end zone for another to put JC on the board
Newman controlled the game from start to finish against John Carroll, winning 45-7.
Cardinal Nemwan will travel out West to West Boca next week. This is a game where the Bulls’ are looking to avenge the overtime loss from last season. That game will be Thursday, 9/10 at West Boca.
John Carroll will look to avenge their first loss of the season next Friday as they host Somerset Prep.
