Sports

Clarion Tops Gannon for Second Win

As the snow fell on Memorial Stadium Saturday, Oct. 29, Clarion topped visiting Gannon University 28-21 to earn its second Pennsylvania State Athletic
Conference West victory of the season.

The Golden Eagles (2-7 overall, 2-4 PSAC) played tough defensively against the rushing game, holding Gannon (3-6, 2-4) to minus-14 yards rushing.

The last time the Golden Eagles achieved this feat was in 2009 in a 24-0 victory over Lock Haven.

Head coach Jay Foster was impressed with the play of his defense and how it has developed as the season has progressed.

“We’ve really improved so much getting around the football and getting bodies to the football,” Foster said. “That’s the type of defense we have to be.”

Offensively, the Eagles converted cornerback to running back Patrick Graham-Murphy had another explosive game, racking up 155 yards rushing, including a 68-yard
run to put Clarion on the board in its first possession.

Graham-Murphy, who has quickly meshed with quarterback Ben Fiscus, attributes that success to dedication.

“It’s practice, practice every day hard, full speed, and it’s just like it’s meant to be,” Graham-Murphy said.

The three-headed attack of Graham-Murphy, Fiscus and Brandon Akins combined for a total 282 yards rushing and a touchdown each.

Foster thinks this backfield, plus the return of John Fuhrer, currently injured, has more potential now than ever.

“I think as the other guys get healthier, it’s going to be a great group back there,” Foster said.

Although the Clarion rush defense was flawless, the Golden Knights were able to execute their passing game, even with the negative weather elements.

Gannon orchestrated a two-play, 67-yard drive as the first half ended, capping it off with a perfectly executed hook-and-ladder play from quarterback Daniel
Tapscott to Jonathon Jones who then pitched the ball back to Lawrence Coleman who scored from 45 yards out to tie the game 14-14 at the half.

Tapscott, however, was picked off three times by Clarion defenders, two of which came in crucial second-half drives for the Knights.

Clarion never trailed, but late in the game Gannon inserted Ty Watson at quarterback, who led a 53-yard scoring drive forcing an onside kick with under a minute
to play.

The Eagles recovered the ball at the Gannon 39 and ran out the clock, earning their second victory.

Coach Foster has been proud of his team’s ability to remain focused and keep trying, despite their losing record this season.

“The thing that has impressed me most is their mental approach,” Foster said.

“They’ve stayed battling and continued to fight.”

Next week Clarion will host Mercyhurst on Saturday, Nov. 5, at 1 p.m. at Memorial Stadium.