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By Ron P. Coderre
The Quinebaug Valley Pride did something it’s never done in the brief history of the tri-op program when it stepped out of the Constitution State Conference and qualified for the CIAC State postseason tournament. Ranked #8 in the Class M competition, the Pride faced off against #1 Valley Regional/Old Lyme on Tuesday, December 3.
Although the Pride had success with its ground game during the regular season, the results against the stronger VR/OL opponent were not what the locals were hoping for, as they were dominated by the Warriors 48-3.
The Warriors jumped out to a 21-0 first quarter advantage and went to the locker room at intermission totally in control 34-0. The second half was all academic as the Pride didn’t score until placekicker Connor Pion nailed a 21-yard field goal for the only points by either team in the final stanza. The field goal was the first points scored against VR/OL in its last four games.
The key to the contest was the Warriors defense, which contained the QVP running back tandem of John Sanderson and Raif Santerre to a total of 24 yards from scrimmage. During the regular season the duo combined for more than 2000 yards on the ground. The Warrior defense limited the Pride to a mere five yards prior to intermission.
Despite the defeat, the season has to be considered a success for the Pride as they finish at 9-3 overall and 9-2 in the regular season including a 14-6 win over Eastern Connecticut Conference opponent Killingly on Thanksgiving Day.
Extra Points
Valley Regional had seven touchdowns against the Pride. The Warriors (12-0), converted all of its third down opportunities and four of its touchdowns came on third down plays…Defensive specialist Benny Brissette had the most offensive yardage for the Pride, picking up 28 yards on two carries…The CIAC playoffs weren’t kind to teams from Eastern Connecticut. In addition to the Pride’s loss, Norwich Free Academy was beaten by Southington 52-14; New London lost to Middletown 49-14; and Ledyard was taken to school by St. Joseph’s 84- 49.
Putnam Town Crier Final Super Standings: Quinebaug Valley Pride – 9-3 (.750); Hyde-Woodstock – 6-2 (.750); Pomfret School – 4-4 (.500); Plainfield – 5-6 (.455); Killingly – 4-7 (.364); Woodstock Academy – 0-11 (.000).