Tensions were high after the first quarter while the fans waited to see who would score first. Despite the slow start from both teams, Westfield was able to pick up their momentum, unlike Union, whose offense was never able to reach the end zone. After the majority of the first half, with one minute remaining, the Blue Devils scored their first touchdown, setting them up for a series of success, as they beat the Farmers 21-0.
Coming off two losses to Phillipsburg and Elizabeth, Westfield knew that they had a lot of room for improvement, and improve they did. The score doesn’t lie: the offense played a key role in securing the win against Union, but defense was the true hero.
Senior Ben Seward and the defensive line pulled through in locking down Union’s offense. “We had perfect tackling, great coverage; every single aspect of our defense was great today,” said Seward.
Despite gaining a lead at the end of the second quarter, Westfield knew they could not grow complacent. Senior co-captain Connor Whelan believed the most important thing was finishing the game strong.
“We went into the half up six zero and we knew the game was not even close to done,” said Whelan. Even with five minutes remaining in the third quarter and Union’s aggressive defense, Westfield scored their second touchdown, leaving the score 12-0 with their incomplete two-point conversion.
Westfield’s offense and defense moved like units, building off of each other to make the next play. This would not have been possible without team chemistry. “I love all these guys and they all love each other,” said Seward. “It’s a lot better when we’re all working together.”
The Blue Devils’ offensive success came from their commitment to the run game, or as Whelan calls it, “pounding the rock.” Eventually, they knew the defense would wear down and holes would open up, which proved to be true.
Head coach Andzel was unavailable for comment, but Whelan believes that one thing they could continue to improve on is their overall physicality. In preparation for their next game against St. Joseph’s (Met.) on Sept. 26 at 6 p.m., they plan to focus on conditioning to build off their performance against Union.
