Shamrock season ends in the Semi-Finals

The St. Patrick’s Shamrocks have had quite a season, losing 4 tough games during the regular season, but peaking at just the right time to put together a good playoff run. On Saturday, November 10th, the Shamrocks visited the far north for a showdown with the Onekama Portagers. Unfortunately, the Shamrocks couldn’t put together a win, and lost to the Portagers 28-14.

At a brisk 30 degrees, and after 24 hours of heavy snowfall, the Onekama field was a muddy, snowy and icy mess. The home team had spent the entire morning clearing around 4-6 inches of snow, and the field was reasonably clear of snow. Unfortunately, the temperature rose above freezing, and this left the field a mud skating rink.

The game began as expected, with neither team able to put together much offensive output due to the slippery conditions. The Shamrocks broke through in the 2nd quarter when Ned Smith broke through and rumbled for a 50-yard touchdown. A completed pass from Connor Cross to Zach Spitzley made the score 8-0 Shamrocks at halftime.

Coming out, the Shamrocks played great defense, but a few breaks here and there allowed the Portagers to tie it up at 8-8. An interception return for a touchdown, and failed 2 point conversion left the score 14-8 Portagers after the 3rd quarter.

In the fourth quarter, the Portagers again marched down the field, and put another score up on the Shamrocks, making it 20-8. The Shamrocks weren’t ready to go home yet though, and put together a drive of their own, and a few scrambled from Connor Cross, a great pass to John Schneider, and an incredible touchdown catch by Tanner Lawson to make the score 20-14. Unfortunately, the Portagers were just too much in these conditions, and marched down the field, making the final score 28-14.

Offensive leaders for the Shamrocks were Connor Cross who went 5-10 for 89 yards and 1 touchdown. Ned Smith had 20 carries for 116 yards and 1 touchdown.

Defensively, the Kissane twins continued their defensive dominance, with Riley getting 18 tackles, and Alex getting 17 tackles and 1 tackle for loss. Paul Cook also got 16 tackles.

The coaches all agreed that the Shamrocks had really achieved great things this year. Lacking much size, with their largest player weighing barely 180 pounds, the Shamrocks played with speed, grit, and determination throughout the season, and every team they played came away being impressed with their football savvy, hard hitting, and sportsmanship. The team came together, and learned to treat their teammates, and more importantly, their opponents, with Christian charity, while still playing Football with aggression and intensity.

The Shamrock Coaching staff were all very humbled by the season, and appreciative of the parent and community support. Many parents expressed gratitude towards the Raider Nation when they observed Raider players, coaches, and fans attending and cheering for the Shamrocks at their last home game. We will pray for the safety and success of the Raiders as they continue their season.

The St. Patrick’s Coaches look forward to next season to continue our mission of building strong, Catholic Men.