By Brian Carroll, Havenfootball.net
With the long and rich history of the Central League, it seems strange to say that any two football opponents would be unfamiliar with one another. But thanks to some scheduling quirks and a pandemic-shortened season in 2020, Strath Haven and Upper Darby are practically strangers. Having not met since 2018, none of the Panther and Royal players (nor Head Coaches) have battled on the gridiron in the past three seasons. But with Haven and Upper Darby firmly in playoff contention in District 1 5A and 6A , respectively, this Friday’s contest has significant power points at stake as the Panthers look to nail down a top seed, and the Royals look for a return to the playoffs for the first time since that 2018 season.
With Head Coach Dave Barr now in his third season, the Royals have started to gain some traction at the right time, highlighted by consecutive wins over Marple-Newtown and Bensalem. Senior do-everything back #5 Montez Ellis started the first six games at quarterback but has shifted to running back to balance the offense. Sophomore #17 Nate O’Donnell has stepped in at quarterback and directed the Royals’ wins over the last two weeks, and he includes senior fullback #20 Lavar Jackson in the rushing game. Fellow seniors who are threats in the passing game include tight end #9 Marcus Kemp, and wide receivers #12 Zyon Jeffries and #15 Xavier Moore. Defensively, the Royals have stiffened dramatically, allowing just three touchdowns in their last 10 quarters of play. Strong safety #3 Jihad Cave is a playmaker in the secondary, while defensive tackle #52 Kaleel McLaughlin is a force on the defensive line. #2 Zahir Burch and #10 Ethan Douglas will lead the linebackers as they look to slow the Strath Haven running game, and #30 Abraham Bility has been steady as the Royals’ placekicker and punter.
