Rodriguez, Boire Lead Pittsfield to Win in Opener
PITTSFIELD, Mass. - - Pittsfield High's Edwin Rodriguez got the season off to a great start, rushing for 136 yards and two touchdowns, including a 45-yard punt return, to help secure a 30-8 win over Easthampton Friday night at Wahconah Park.
It was a game of two halves Friday night and was looking like a deadlock going into the break before Edwin Rodriguez’s 45-yard punt return with 7 seconds left on clock. The Generals (1-0) took a 14-8 lead and never looked back. Pittsfield kept the ball on the ground early and often thanks to running back Rodriguez and quarterback Tyrell Boire. Together they racked up 222 yards rushing.
“We want to run the football,” Pittsfield coach Brian Jezewski said. “We’re a triple option team, I thought Easthampton did a really nice job taking away the pitch game and giving us the inside, so we will take what teams give us.”
For Easthampton (0-1), Max Weir threw for 51 yards, including a big touchdown to Camden Kelly early in the second quarter. Nick Tausendfreund added 56 yards on the ground.
Both teams had trouble taking care of the football, but it was only Pittsfield who was able to capitalize on these mistakes. Shawn Morgan took a 55-yard interception back to the house to cap the game off at 30-8. A few other fumbles gave Pittsfield great field position, and the Generals made sure they used it.
“We take pride in not turning the ball over. It's unfortunate we had some turnovers, but that's all coachable. We know how hard we work and we bounced back," Jezewski said.
Even with the turnovers Pittsfield was able to control the tempo of the game throughout the second half and cruise to an opening night victory.
Pittsfield will take on Ludlow away on Friday while Easthampton will host South Hadley the same day.