Pioneers chug past Crusaders on the gridiron 34-14


Collin "Bear" Shank pauses after the game
with his number one first grade fan, Simon Swarr.
Image courtesy of Mr. Jeff Swarr.
After a strong win last week at Manheim Central, the Pioneers came back home and plodded past Lancaster Catholic, 34-14. Unlike last week, the Pioneers were the strong favorite in today's game.

The top storyline of the night occurred when L-S QB Bear Shank surpassed 7000 yards in tonight's game and eventually passed NFL quarterback Chad Henne of the Jacksonville Jaguars for the third most passing yards ever by a Lancaster-Lebanon League QB. Bear finished the night with three touchdowns and two interceptions before being replaced in the fourth quarter when the game was out of reach.

The Pioneer defense also had a strong showing in tonight's game. Sacks by Pete Tollinger, Dan Reidenbaugh and Shane Lawler all helped limit the Crusaders passing game. The defense also forced three punts in the first three Lancaster Catholic drives and ended a potential Crusader scoring drive with an interception by Chad Gaudino. Poor Lancaster Catholic special teams play also led to a muffed punt recovered by Caleb Lopez and a fumble on a kickoff return to start the second half which was recovered by George Grau.

Taking advantage of the strong defense the Pioneer offense often took good field position to Thierry advantage, scoring 5 touchdowns. Shane Lawler contributed to the scoring with two touchdown runs, both from 2 yards out. Chad Gaudino had one of the three touchdown receptions, the other two going to Kyle Metz. The Pioneer offense really looked strong at the beginning, but went into a more conservative play style after gaining a 20-0 first half lead.


Again it was a very good showing for the Pioneers, but this was of course the expected outcome. This was the Pioneers' last home game, as well as senior night. Congratulations to all senior members of the marching band, football team, and cheerleading squad who were honored at tonight's game. L-S travels to Lebanon to play the Cedars next Friday.


-Kevin Reed, LSNews.org Football Reporter. Maya Pieters, LSNews.org Photographer

See all of Maya Pieters sidelines pictures from the game.

Edited: BP

Popular posts from this blog

From Swamp to Stage: “Shrek the Musical” Charms and Delights at Lampeter-Strasburg High School

Advice: How to get straight As

Orchestra in the Limelight