BULLDOG DEFENSE IS STILL ON THE SHOW

By Matt Romeo

CORTLAND OH – On a crisp fall evening with 56 degrees and clear skies, the Poland Seminary Bulldogs (6-2) took on the Lakeview Bulldogs (4-4) in a crucial Week 9 game. Poland entered the game with the momentum of a strong season, while Lakeview looked to keep its playoff hopes alive. However, Poland’s defense and special teams set the tone early, leading to a commanding 35-7 win at Dave Pavlansky Field.

First quarter: Poland’s special teams and defense shine early

The game got off to a fiery start as Poland capitalized on a big special teams play. With just under eight minutes left in the first quarter, Pano Xipolitas broke through Lakeview’s line, blocked a punt, picked it up and returned it 50 yards for the first score of the game. Jas Stefancin’s PAT was good and Poland quickly took a 7-0 lead.

Poland’s Jas Stefancin shocked the Lakeview kickoff return team with an onside kick and recovery of the ball, giving the Polish offense another chance to attack. On her ensuing drive, Xipolitas found the end zone again, this time on a 2-yard run, capping a methodical drive that gave Poland a 14-0 lead with 5:25 left in the quarter. Lakeview, which struggled to gain momentum early, found itself in a deep hole late in the first quarter.

Second Quarter: Lakeview fights back, but Poland responds late

In the second quarter, Lakeview managed to get back into the game. Running back Hayden Newton accepted a jet-sweep handoff from quarterback Eli Gough for a 5-yard touchdown at the 8:57 mark. Leo Parise’s extra point cut Poland’s lead to 14-7, and Lakeview looked poised to make it a contest.

However, Poland’s offense would not be denied. Late in the first half, Polish quarterback Vito Komara orchestrated an attack that would deal a devastating blow to Lakeview’s comeback hopes. With just 9 seconds left in the half, Komara hit wide receiver JJ Faunda with a perfectly placed 27-yard touchdown pass. Stefancin’s PAT made it 21-7 at halftime and put the momentum firmly back in Poland’s favor.

Third quarter: Poland pulls away

Poland continued to dominate in the second half and started with another powerful attack at the start of the third quarter. Pano Xipolitas continued his already outstanding night by scoring his third touchdown of the game on a 4-yard run with 9:09 left in the third quarter. Stefancin’s reliable leg made it 28-7, and Lakeview’s offense couldn’t respond.

The Polish defense overwhelmed Lakeview for the remainder of the third quarter and forced another punt late in the quarter. This time it was Komara’s turn to make a splash on special teams. Komara hit the punt at his own 48-yard line, weaved through Lakeview defenders and broke free for a 52-yard punt return touchdown with just 31 seconds left in the third quarter. Stefancin took advantage of the extra point, extended Poland’s lead to 35:7 and all but sealed the game.

Fourth quarter: Poland completes the victory

The fourth quarter was largely uneventful as the Polish defense continued to stifle Lakeview’s offense and both teams began to utilize younger players. Lakeview had a few opportunities to reduce the deficit, but was unable to break through Poland’s strong defense. Poland, happy with their commanding lead, focused on controlling time and securing victory.

Final score: Poland 35, Lakeview 7

Poland’s victory was a pure team effort, with standout performances from Pano Xipolitas, who scored three touchdowns (including a 50-yard punt block return), and Vito Komara, who contributed both in the air and on special teams. The defense, led by timely stops and crucial turnovers, ensured that Lakeview never regained momentum after their only score in the second quarter.

With the win, Poland improved to 7-2 on the season and continued to push toward the playoffs. Lakeview, now 4-5, must regroup heading into the final week of the regular season.

Poland’s impressive performance on both ends solidifies them as a team to watch heading into the postseason.