Sabers open with Bluestone win

The Susquehanna Sabers reclaimed the Bluestone trophy with a 21-7 win over Montrose Area in the season opener on Friday, Aug. 26. STAFF PHOTO/STACI WILSON

Saber quarterback Kyle Donovan received the Tom E. Robinson Memorial Award which recognizes an outstanding player who shows respect to the other team and officials during the game. STAFF PHOTO/STACI WILSON

BY STACI WILSON

Football season opened Friday with the biggest game in Susquehanna County – the Battle for the Bluestone.

The Susquehanna Sabers came back ready to avenge the 3-0 loss to Montrose Area last year and reclaimed the trophy with a 21-7 win.

Saber coach Kyle Cook said the win felt good after last year’s bittersweet loss on their home field.

“It means a lot to the kids and to me as a coach, as well,” Cook said.

With co-sponsored teams, the Bluestone game puts players from four local school districts on the field at the same time. With division changes, Montrose ended its co-sponsorship with Elk Lake last year, but players on the roster can remain on the team until they graduate. Players from the Blue Ridge School District play on the Susquehanna Community team.

In year’s past, the game has taken place several weeks into the season. This year, the local rivals only had one real week of practice and a scrimmage to prepare.

Cook said, ‘It’s a tough game to prepare for. The kids are amped up for it.”

He said the team’s nerves and emotions led to some penalties early in the game. “But they got their composure back.”

For the Sabers, Ian Townend scored on the team’s second possession; and added another in the third quarter. Sam Cosmello also crossed the goal line for Susquehanna.

Tyler Dovin scored for the Meteors.

Montrose plays at Meyers on Friday night; while Susquehanna hosts Holy Redeemer at home Saturday afternoon.

Saber quarterback Kyle Donovan received the Tom E. Memorial Robinson award. Robinson helped start the Saber football program 50 years ago.  The award is given to recognize an outstanding player that shows respect to other players and officials during the game.  His family created the award in his honor after his death in April 2015.