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Serra Hopes to Rebound After Apollo-Ridge Loss

Eagles host 8-0 Steel Valley Ironmen in Haler Heights tonight

By Jason A. Mignanelli
The Tube City Almanac
October 28, 2022
Posted in: Sports

Serra Catholic’s football team suffered an untimely loss last Friday night at the hands of Apollo-Ridge. The final score was 43–36 in a close game that came right down to the final whistle.

The Eagles are hoping to bounce back tonight (Oct. 28) when they host the 8-0 Steel Valley Ironmen under the lights in Haler Heights. Game time is 7 p.m.

“A loss is never a bad thing. We saw what happened after the North Catholic loss and this needs to be treated the same way. We hope to still have a long season ahead, and the loss doesn't do anything to change that outlook,” said assistant head coach Michael Betler.

Senior quarterback Elijah “Tiger” Ward was 5-8-170 passing with three touchdowns and rushed for 56 yards on 10 carries.

Senior running back Mike Schanck had nine carries for 52 yards and one touchdown, while senior wide receiver Amir Spencer had four receptions for 82 yards and one touchdown.

Although the game was well-played on both sides, Apollo-Ridge’s offensive line proved to be too much for Serra to handle. “Apollo had a great offensive game plan: run the ball behind a big and strong offensive line and kill the clock as much as possible. We were only able to force one punt,” said Betler.

The Eagles must quickly turn their attention to the undefeated Ironmen of Steel Valley.  “This week has been our best week of practice this year, both as a response to last week's loss, and the number one team in the WPIAL coming to town this Friday night,” said Betler.

Currently, Serra looks to be guaranteed a playoff spot even if they are unable to get past Steel Valley. “We have second place locked up in the conference, which should translate to a home playoff game,” said Betler

But a win would set Serra up nicely for winning the conference again.

“Steel Valley is a great team that combines good size on the line with tremendous skill. They are the number one team in AA for a reason, and we will need to play our best to beat them,” Betler said.

Around the Region

East Allegheny (7-2) defeated Knoch (0-9) last Friday 31-21. The Wildcats travel to (4-4) Shady Side Academy tonight for their last regular season game before the playoffs.

McKeesport (9-0) continued its amazing run with a 54-14 victory over Greater Latrobe (5-4). The Tigers host Thomas Jefferson (6-3) tonight for their last regular season game before the playoffs.


Jason A. Mignanelli is a freelance writer from Pittsburgh’s North Hills and a student at Duquesne University. He may be reached at mignanellij@duq.edu.

Originally published October 28, 2022.

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