After Jared Velasquez's big game against TC Williams High School last week, the Fairfax Rebels made sure their defense did not allowed the Rams star running back to make any big plays. just a few days before yesterday's game, could not develop any type offensive rhythm, and the Rebels held off a late Rams charge to win, 20-12.
The Rebels clearly did their homework, clogging the middle of the field to leave Velasquez no room to breathe. The Rams and Rebels fought their way to a 6-6 tie at halftime after running back Kambulu Musokotwane found the endzone with 20 seconds left in the half.
At halftime, Robinson Head Coach Mark Bendorf stressed the importance of a full team effort, asking supporting players to step up and make big plays.
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"It's a clean slate this half guys," Bendorf said. "We need everyone to step up their game and play hard for two more quarters."
Early in the second half, it appeared Bendorf's speech stuck with his players. Quarterback Mike LoPresti hooked up with his favorite receiver Velasquez for a 37-yard catch, setting up a first-and-goal early in the third quarter. A few plays later, Velasquez would punch it in to give Robinson a 12-6 lead.
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With under a minute left in the third quarter, the Rams missed a few key tackles on Rebels quarterback Spencer Macleod, as he tip-toed down the sideline to the Rams 10 yard line. Two plays later Macleod would run it in himself and Rebels kicker Austin Perryman would hit a crucial extra point to give the Rebels a 13-12 lead entering the final quarter of the game.
Senior defensive back Thomas Petrocci had a big interception for the Rams with 6:30 left in the game. The Rams would take over on their own 32 yard line but were unable to cash in on the interception. On the ensuing drive Rebels running back Kolin Atkinson scampered 66 yards for a touchdown, putting Fairfax up by eight.
The Rams unravelled at the end of the game, as LoPresti threw two interceptions and the offensive line allowed two sacks resulting in a loss of 32 yards. Still, the Rams had one final chance, but LoPresti's hail mary to Velasquez was intercepted.
LoPresti took no solace in the way his team fought until the end. "It was a disappointing loss," LoPresti said. "It doesn't feel good to lose at all."
The Rams next game is Thursday Sept. 16 at home against Marshall at home.
