Sports Column: Xavier Charges Forward in Playoffs

By Nick Byrne '11

As the sun set over Jamaica Bay on Saturday night, a strong breeze rolled across Aviator Field as the Knights (8-1) prepared to rout Kellenberg Memorial, 29-14, in the opening round of the CHSFL AA playoffs.

The Knights met the Firebirds under the lights, wearing their maroon home jerseys, ready to run the prolific single-wing offense.

In week 5 of the regular season, senior running back Michael Chiarovano ’16 rushed for 291 yards and five touchdowns, leading the Knights to a 36-20 victory. The Firebirds’ mission was simple—stop number 39.

But Xavier’s offense runs like a well-oiled machine, through the effective coordination of many parts.

The offensive linemen drove their feet and held their blocks; the backs hit their holes, and maestro Chris Stevens ’83 worked his magic, running 59 plays for 313 total yards and four touchdowns.

Coach Kevin Kelly’s impenetrable run defense held the Birds to -21 rushing yards on 14 attempts. Senior defensive end and player of the week Anthony Pugliese ’16 posted a game-high 10 tackles, including four sacks.

As the Firebirds rise from the ashes, the Knights look forward to this Saturday’s semifinal matchup against St. John the Baptist. The Cougars (8-1) fell to the Knights, 19-7, in week 2, but have only gotten better, as most teams do.

Kickoff is scheduled for 1:30 p.m. at Aviator Sports Complex.