The Clippers prevailed 39-8 over the Cornwall Timberwolves before a good crowd at Eric Johnston Field on a cold and blustery Friday night. Summerside improved its record to 2-0 (won-lost) in the Papa John’s P.E.I. Varsity Tackle Football League.
The Clippers started the game out with a bang as wide receiver Parker Cameron took an end around on the first offensive play of the game – and with some great blocks from tight end Cameron Gallant and receivers Spencer Haakman and Charlie Turner – ran 60 yards for the touchdown and a quick 7-0 lead.
Cornwall, on its ensuing series, had a bad snap on a third-down punt, which resulted in a safety and a 9-0 Summerside lead. The Clippers added to the lead in the second quarter on a 50-yard touchdown run by Cole Adams for a 15-0 advantage going into the half.
"We weren't really that sharp offensively with a two-week layoff, and the windy conditions seemed to affect our execution early in the game,” assessed Clippers head coach John Turner. “We thank our defence for keeping Cornwall out of the end zone.
"We had two starting receivers out, and we were going to give the ball to Cole and to our best receiver (Friday), and you see what kind of player Parker can be. He even was our kicker (Friday) due to an injury to Caleb Dawson.”
Second half
The Clippers’ offence struck for 24 points in the second half. Adams provided another long touchdown run of 60 yards, and quarterback Owen Turner threw for three majors. He connected on a 15-yard play to tight end Cameron Gallant and two to Cameron.
On the first score Cameron weaved his way through the defence for a 40-yard score on a slant pass. Turner and Cameron again hooked up for a 40-yard corner route in which the Summerside receiver broke tackles the last 10 yards.
Cornwall scored a touchdown in the fourth quarter on a 10-yard run by quarterback Hunter Prus, and a converted two-point conversion.
"We made adjustments at half on offence, and got back to running the ball along with a short passing game in these conditions,” added Turner. “The defence played great once again.
“(Assistant coaches) Jeff (MacDonald) and Brian (Doucet) have done a great job with our starting defence as they have not given up a touchdown. If the offence doesn't turn the ball over and teams have to go the long field against this D, we will be tough to play against this season.”
The Spartans return to action on Sunday, Oct. 8, when they travel to Rollo Bay for the Souris Wildcats’ home opener at 3 p.m.
"The season is only at the halfway mark, so a lot can happen between now and the end,” cautioned Turner. “We need to keep practising hard."
