Westfield shows resolve in comeback win against South Lakes

https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/highschools/westfield-shows-resolve-in-comeback-win-against-south-lakes/2015/11/23/35b68e1c-91ff-11e5-a2d6-f57908580b1f_story.html

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Before sending his team out to the field for Friday’s Virginia 6A North region quarterfinal against South Lakes, Westfield Coach Kyle Simmons issued a warning to his players, many of whom had not been a part of the Bulldogs past postseason success.

At some point during these playoffs, Simmons cautioned, the Bulldogs would find their backs against the wall. And with their season on the line, it would be paramount for them to respond as a unit.

A couple hours later, after South Lakes took its lead early in the fourth quarter, No. 7 Westfield found itself in that uncomfortable position. But any concern harbored by the Bulldogs soon gave way to confidence as they recalled Simmons’ speech.

“It was definitely a wake-up call, but it’s not anything we weren’t prepared for,” Bulldogs senior receiver Hank Johnson said. “We knew it was something we could fight back from.”

That belief wafted to the special teams huddle, when assistant coach Mike Giancola told his group that he had faith in the upcoming kickoff. Seventy yards later, after Tavon Greene raced past the Seahawks for the go-ahead touchdown, what began as a prophetic night became a 24-13 comeback playoff win for Westfield (11-1).

“A bunch of us seniors want that ring. We’re tired of losing when it matters most,” Greene said. “Our coaches get us ready and we’re just determined not to crumble.”

With 10 new starters on offense, the path to make it past the region final and overcome the one obstacle that’s tripped up the Bulldogs in each of the last four seasons has admittedly been tougher than recent years. But thanks to a stout defense that’s allowed just 11 points per game, Westfield’s offense was afforded the time and opportunities to round into form.

In the first half, one of two interceptions by Kevin Petrillo set up a Tyler Scanlon touchdown scamper. Then, following Greene’s return, Billy Pickett snagged another interception to quell South Lakes’ attempt at a rally.

Facing a third and one deep in the red zone, the Bulldogs handed the ball to Tim Beard, who plowed ahead for the first down, ultimately setting up another touchdown run by Scanlon to seal the victory.

“At halftime, our offense knew we had to start clicking if we wanted to win the game,” Johnson said. “We know our defense and special teams is going to make plays, and even though we have a lot of young, inexperienced talent on offense, it’s on us to make the most of those opportunities they give us.”