Sunday, September 30, 2018
COMMENT PLEASE
Fans, I absolutely love preparing this blog and seeing all of the sporting events that I get to enjoy. If you like this blog and want to send a shout out to your favorite student athlete, please post a comment! We want to know how you feel about our Falcon players.
Thursday, September 27, 2018
PHOTOGRAPHERS WANTED!
If any Elmira Falcons fans are out at a sports events and taking photos, please consider sharing those moments with the greater Falcon family through this blog. I am always needing more photography. I am blessed to have Kimberly Lillie's fine work but there is only one of her and usually 8 events a week... sometimes more. As you can see from these samples, she has an impeccable eye and adds a great deal to the flavor of the stories, win or lose.
If you would like to publish your Falcon's sports photos, please attach them in an email, with details of the players and the event, including date to jhuls@fernridge.k12.or.us. You will receive full published credit and make an overworking sports reporter very happy.
See you at the games!
(All Photographs by Kimberly Lillie)
If you would like to publish your Falcon's sports photos, please attach them in an email, with details of the players and the event, including date to jhuls@fernridge.k12.or.us. You will receive full published credit and make an overworking sports reporter very happy.
See you at the games!
(All Photographs by Kimberly Lillie)
TRIBULATION TUESDAY: Three Elmira Teams go into Battle with Mixed Rusults.
All aspects of emotion and success were on display Tuesday September 25 as three Elmira squads felt the joy and agonies of three different results.
At Swartz Field, the boys' soccer team rebounded from a horrid 10-0 drubbing at the hands of Henley to wage a scoreless draw with Cottage Grove in the Falcons' first league contest of the year.
"I was actually very pleased with the game," head coach Ryan Chambers said in an email. "Clearly, a win would have been nice but I felt the score was indicative of the game as a whole. It was very evenly matched and both teams played pretty well."
In one of the best defensive performances of they year, Chambers kept midfielder Riley Chambers back to patrol the middle, a strategy that flummoxed any sense of rhythm that the Lions' offense was trying to muster. When Cottage Grove was able to pressure the goal, Jaden Palmer was laying in wait, rejecting 9 shots on goal, unofficially, and registering his third shut out of the season.
Elmira and Cottage Grove Fight to a Draw
At Swartz Field, the boys' soccer team rebounded from a horrid 10-0 drubbing at the hands of Henley to wage a scoreless draw with Cottage Grove in the Falcons' first league contest of the year.
"I was actually very pleased with the game," head coach Ryan Chambers said in an email. "Clearly, a win would have been nice but I felt the score was indicative of the game as a whole. It was very evenly matched and both teams played pretty well."
In one of the best defensive performances of they year, Chambers kept midfielder Riley Chambers back to patrol the middle, a strategy that flummoxed any sense of rhythm that the Lions' offense was trying to muster. When Cottage Grove was able to pressure the goal, Jaden Palmer was laying in wait, rejecting 9 shots on goal, unofficially, and registering his third shut out of the season.
Elmira Volleyball Team Returns to Winning Ways
After absorbing a first set loss to upstart Suislaw, the Lady Falcons flexed their combined talents and won the final three games as Elmira rolled past the Lady Vikings 3-1 at Elmira High School, Tuesday September 25.
Putting the first game behind, the Lady Falcons began to methodically carry out their game plan with Sydney Green leading the team in assists. The beneficiaries of Green's generosity were Maranda Hanson who led the team with 11 kills and Carly Grossmiller who added 8 kills.
"It was a rough first set," commented Elmira volleyball head coach Sarah Wartenbee in an email. "They finally started palying together and completing the plays that they are capable of. It was nice to see."
The improvement is easy to see in the record. After suffering a dismal rut, losing 9 consecutive sets the week before last to league opponents Marist, Junction City and Cottage Grove, The Lady Falcons have rallied to go 6-5 in sets in the last week. This is just in time as Elmira has a road tilt with 10th ranked Marshfield, who despite being in second place in the league sport a sparkling 12-3 record going into the match.
Lady Falcons fall at Cottage Grove
Elmira's girls' soccer team was equally scrappy as they stayed within two goals of the 11th ranked Lady Lions until the 10:00 minute mark of the second half before a third goal and a penalty kick late spelled a 4-0 loss.
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| Elmira's Paige Reichenberger delivers a header in front of a Cottage Grove defender in the Falcon's 4-0 loss to the Lady Lions, Tuesday September 25 at Cottage Grove High School. Photo Kimberly Lillie |
"Cottage Grove has some very talented and fast players," noted Elmira girls' soccer head coach Rob Lee in an email. "(they) were very aggressive getting after loose balls."
The Lady Falcons fell behind on an inexplicable deflection off a corner kick snuck past the goal line. However, Lee saw continued progress from his young team.
"We defended very well most of the time," Lee said. "(Goalkeeper) Andrah Cobb made some incredible saves to help keep the score where it was."
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| Goalkeeper Andrah Cobb fires the ball out of the Falcons zone during their game with Cottage Grove. Elmira fell to the Lady Lions 4-0, Tuesday September 25 at Cottage Grove High School. Photo by Kimberly Lillie. |
Tuesday, September 25, 2018
Soaring Falcons are Grounded by Marist
The magic carpet ride that was flying into the conference schedule for Elmira's football team was brought to earth in the most guttural way, as Marist Catholic managed to snuff out a Falcon offense that came in to the game as the #3 scoring team in 4A, as the Spartans defeated then #4 ranked Elmira 15-2.
"We could have won this game," head coach Justin Peeler said as he came off the field. This could be an enormous understatement. Peeler was looking back at the squandered opportunities that Elmira left on the field. Four times the Falcons had the ball inside the Marist red zone; three of those were inside the Spartan's 5 yard line. On all of those drives, the Falcons were turned away, as they failed to score an offensive touchdown for the first time this year.
The contest was a defensive slug fest with quarterbacks paying the price. Passing was a premium for both teams, though Marist QB Joey Laing did manage to connect on a 40 yard pass and the Spartans' halfback Hagen Stephenson connected on a 35 yard option pass. Both strikes led to both of Marist's touchdowns, a 2 yard touchdown by Hayden Loboy, and a 3 yard run by Laing. However, the Elmira defense came to play and did their job, pressuring Laing all night, registering 5 sacks and a safety from a holding penalty in the end zone which closed the score to 7-2 in the second period. The Elmira defense held the Marist offense to under 200 yards. The Falcons defense was led by Alex Head who rung up 7 tackles on the night.
In like manner, the Marist defense dismantled the Falcon offense, punishing Elmira quarterbacks with 8 sacks on the day, usually at the most inopportune moments of the game. Starting quarterback Cobyn Herbert was workmanlike in passing 8 of 15 for 81 yards. However, Herbert injured his knee late in the first half while the Falcons were still inside the Marist 5 yard line. Back up quarterback Wolfgang Marsalis came on and was immediately sacked by Marist and the drive was thwarted. Marsalis' night was miserable, throwing 2 for 9 and a meager 4 yards while absorbing 5 sacks the rest of the way and failing to show the kind of foot speed that Herbert has shown that propelled the offense this season . This changed the complexion of the Falcons offense, which failed to threaten Marist significantly afterwards.
Herbert's knee injury could mean a decision for Peeler between the established backup Marsalis and the faster Rowdy Ramirez, who got quarterback time earlier this year in a mop up role at Suislaw. The diagnosis and prognosis of Herbert's injury was not available at press time.
The Falcons have the opportunity to get both healthy and back into the win column as they host bottom dwelling Junction City for homecoming this Friday, September 28 at Swartz Field.
"We could have won this game," head coach Justin Peeler said as he came off the field. This could be an enormous understatement. Peeler was looking back at the squandered opportunities that Elmira left on the field. Four times the Falcons had the ball inside the Marist red zone; three of those were inside the Spartan's 5 yard line. On all of those drives, the Falcons were turned away, as they failed to score an offensive touchdown for the first time this year.
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| Elmira's sophomore quarterback Cobyn Herbert (17) fires a pass under heavy pressure from a defender in the first quarter of the Falcons' 15-2 defeat to Marist, Friday September 21 at Swartz Field. Photo by Kimberly Lillie |
The contest was a defensive slug fest with quarterbacks paying the price. Passing was a premium for both teams, though Marist QB Joey Laing did manage to connect on a 40 yard pass and the Spartans' halfback Hagen Stephenson connected on a 35 yard option pass. Both strikes led to both of Marist's touchdowns, a 2 yard touchdown by Hayden Loboy, and a 3 yard run by Laing. However, the Elmira defense came to play and did their job, pressuring Laing all night, registering 5 sacks and a safety from a holding penalty in the end zone which closed the score to 7-2 in the second period. The Elmira defense held the Marist offense to under 200 yards. The Falcons defense was led by Alex Head who rung up 7 tackles on the night.
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| Elmira running back Ryan Imelm (33) catches a pass in the soft spot of the Marist defensive zone early in the first half of the Spartans' 15-2 win over the Falcons Friday September 21 at Swartz Field. Photo by Kimberly Lillie |
In like manner, the Marist defense dismantled the Falcon offense, punishing Elmira quarterbacks with 8 sacks on the day, usually at the most inopportune moments of the game. Starting quarterback Cobyn Herbert was workmanlike in passing 8 of 15 for 81 yards. However, Herbert injured his knee late in the first half while the Falcons were still inside the Marist 5 yard line. Back up quarterback Wolfgang Marsalis came on and was immediately sacked by Marist and the drive was thwarted. Marsalis' night was miserable, throwing 2 for 9 and a meager 4 yards while absorbing 5 sacks the rest of the way and failing to show the kind of foot speed that Herbert has shown that propelled the offense this season . This changed the complexion of the Falcons offense, which failed to threaten Marist significantly afterwards.
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| Falcon defenders Blake Wigham (28) and Bryce Sawyer (20) combine on tackling Marist tailback Hayden Loboy during the Spartan's 15-2 victory over Elmira Friday September 21 at Swartz Field. Photo by Kimberly Lillie |
Herbert's knee injury could mean a decision for Peeler between the established backup Marsalis and the faster Rowdy Ramirez, who got quarterback time earlier this year in a mop up role at Suislaw. The diagnosis and prognosis of Herbert's injury was not available at press time.
The Falcons have the opportunity to get both healthy and back into the win column as they host bottom dwelling Junction City for homecoming this Friday, September 28 at Swartz Field.
Monday, September 24, 2018
Rough Week for Lady Falcons Volleyball Ends with Improvement
After losing 6 consecutive sets last week, the Elmira Volleyball team finally righted the ship as they hosted 5 other teams at their own tournament on Saturday September 22 at Elmira High School. After splitting four sets with Mazama and North Marion in pool play, the Falcons came off the deck to sweep away Gladstone 2-0 (25-5, 25-16). The win moved the Lady Falcons into the championship bracket where they fell 2-1 to Phoenix, 15-25, 28-26, and 12-15.
The week started ominously at Junction City, where a power failure at the Tigers gymnasium caused a 45 minute delay. Their reward for their patience was a 3-0 loss to Junction City (17-25, 11-25, and 7-25) despite 6 blocks by Maranda Hanson. The three set drubbing was amplified by a rash of two hit and net violations, many of which left Lady Falcon players mystified. The calls were incongruously distributed with Elmira getting tagged with 19 violations to only 3 for Junction City. The Lady Falcons were then swept aside 3-0 by Cottage Grove on Thursday, September 20. They also fell 2-0 to Newport in their tournament consolation round. Three of the Lady Falcons' victories this year have over Gladstone.
The week left Elmira at 5-6 (0-3 in the 4A Sky-Em League) for the season.
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| Cheyanne White fires a shot in a game earlier this season for the Lady Falcons volleyball team. Photo: Kimberly Lillie |
The week started ominously at Junction City, where a power failure at the Tigers gymnasium caused a 45 minute delay. Their reward for their patience was a 3-0 loss to Junction City (17-25, 11-25, and 7-25) despite 6 blocks by Maranda Hanson. The three set drubbing was amplified by a rash of two hit and net violations, many of which left Lady Falcon players mystified. The calls were incongruously distributed with Elmira getting tagged with 19 violations to only 3 for Junction City. The Lady Falcons were then swept aside 3-0 by Cottage Grove on Thursday, September 20. They also fell 2-0 to Newport in their tournament consolation round. Three of the Lady Falcons' victories this year have over Gladstone.
The week left Elmira at 5-6 (0-3 in the 4A Sky-Em League) for the season.
Monday, September 17, 2018
Falcons Take Flight in Win over Philomath; Soar to #4 in 4A
For two consecutive weeks, the Elmira offense was predicated on a strong rushing game with Brady Nagel carrying the bulk of the offensive responsibility and Head Coach Justin Peeler keeping sophomore quarterback Cobyn Herbert on a gradual learning curve. However, Philomath's strong defensive line necessitated that the young Falcon needed to leave the nest. The results were profound.
With Nagel held to only 54 yards, the 6-4 Herbert was loosed on the Philomath secondary, throwing 3 touchdown passes, two to Bryson Forsman, while the Elmira defense forced 4 turnovers as the Falcons flew to an 18-7 victory over the previously undefeated Warriors.
Herbert was 15 for 26, 223 yards without an interception.
"We knew they were going to blitz a lot and force us to pass," Peeler explained in an email. "It was nice to see the passing game be successful."
While Forsman was the beneficiary of 2 scores, it was Rowdy Ramirez who joined Herbert in the coming out party for the Falcon passing attack. Ramirez caught 7 passes for 129 yards and a touchdown.
"Rowdy had a great game and was excited for him," Peeler said. "He is a very hard working player and I love to coach him."
While the passing offense was thrilling for Falcon fans, it was the defense that carried the day. Against a very effective offensive line that ground out 192 physical yards, the defense used timely turnovers and an epic goal line stand at the end of the first half to win the day. Elmira registered three fumble recoveries, an interception by Bryce Sawyer, and three sacks on the night.
With Philomath trailing 12-7 late in the second quarter, the Warriors drove the ball to the Falcons' 5 yard line. There with 4 opportunities, Elmira's defense bowed its back and held the visitors out of the end zone, the fourth down attempt coming with only 5 seconds remaining in the half. The Falcons scored on the opening drive of the second half and controlled the game from that point forward.
"The defense was amazing last night," praised Peeler. "We rallied to the ball very well. We did get tired, but they really pushed through and got the job done. They wanted the win and they took it away from them."
Elmira finds themselves in rarefied air, ranked 4th in 4A by the OSAA ahead of Cottage Grove, Marshfield and Marist Catholic. The league schedule begins next Friday night, September 21 at Swartz Field as the Falcons host Marist, who find themselves on a two game losing streak. Both Marshfield and Cottage Grove have also absorbed losses this year.
"Now the grind starts," Peeler opined. "I am feeling better about going into these games with some good tests. In years past, our non-league has been very weak. Marist is tough, but they are on a losing streak right now. We need to jump on them early and get their confidence down. Cottage Grove loss was a shocker. We will see how they are. They have a lot of new faces, but are well coached."
With Nagel held to only 54 yards, the 6-4 Herbert was loosed on the Philomath secondary, throwing 3 touchdown passes, two to Bryson Forsman, while the Elmira defense forced 4 turnovers as the Falcons flew to an 18-7 victory over the previously undefeated Warriors.
Herbert was 15 for 26, 223 yards without an interception.
"We knew they were going to blitz a lot and force us to pass," Peeler explained in an email. "It was nice to see the passing game be successful."
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| Quarterback Cobyn Herbert throws to a wide open Brady Nagel in the second quarter of the Falcons' 18-7 victory over Philomath, Friday September 14 at Swartz Field. Photo: Brad Fuqua/Philomath Express |
While Forsman was the beneficiary of 2 scores, it was Rowdy Ramirez who joined Herbert in the coming out party for the Falcon passing attack. Ramirez caught 7 passes for 129 yards and a touchdown.
"Rowdy had a great game and was excited for him," Peeler said. "He is a very hard working player and I love to coach him."
While the passing offense was thrilling for Falcon fans, it was the defense that carried the day. Against a very effective offensive line that ground out 192 physical yards, the defense used timely turnovers and an epic goal line stand at the end of the first half to win the day. Elmira registered three fumble recoveries, an interception by Bryce Sawyer, and three sacks on the night.
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| Gavin Parker hits Philomath quarterback Calvin Snuggerud during the Falcons' 18-7 win over the Warriors, Friday September 14 at Swartz Field. Photo: Brad Fuqua/Philomath Express |
With Philomath trailing 12-7 late in the second quarter, the Warriors drove the ball to the Falcons' 5 yard line. There with 4 opportunities, Elmira's defense bowed its back and held the visitors out of the end zone, the fourth down attempt coming with only 5 seconds remaining in the half. The Falcons scored on the opening drive of the second half and controlled the game from that point forward.
"The defense was amazing last night," praised Peeler. "We rallied to the ball very well. We did get tired, but they really pushed through and got the job done. They wanted the win and they took it away from them."
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| Elmira's Bryce Sawyer steps in front of Philomath's Brooks Stearns for an interception in the fourth quarter of the Falcons' 18-7 win, Friday September 14 at Swartz Field. Photo: Brad Fuqua/Philomath Express |
Elmira finds themselves in rarefied air, ranked 4th in 4A by the OSAA ahead of Cottage Grove, Marshfield and Marist Catholic. The league schedule begins next Friday night, September 21 at Swartz Field as the Falcons host Marist, who find themselves on a two game losing streak. Both Marshfield and Cottage Grove have also absorbed losses this year.
"Now the grind starts," Peeler opined. "I am feeling better about going into these games with some good tests. In years past, our non-league has been very weak. Marist is tough, but they are on a losing streak right now. We need to jump on them early and get their confidence down. Cottage Grove loss was a shocker. We will see how they are. They have a lot of new faces, but are well coached."
Friday, September 14, 2018
Marist Catholic Rolls over Lady Falcons in Conference Opener
The 11th ranked Marist Lady Spartans finally began playing to their ranking, defeating a pesky Elmira squad 3-0 (25-16, 25-16, and 25-22). It was the Spartans' first victory and raised their record to 1-5 on the season.
The Lady Falcons weren't able to make a serious run at Marist until the third game as the Lady Spartans kept Elmira at arms length in the first two games. Senior Carly Grossmiller awoke in the third game sparking the Elmira rally with 6 kills.
Carly and Maranda (Hanson) had great games," head coach Sarah Wartenbee said in an email. "My setters (Josie Dickson, Sydney Green, and Annie Carpenter) hustled tremendously and did an excellent job of taking control of the ball even if the first pass wasn't on point. Azzy Lane did a great job serving, in the back row, and does everything that is asked of her"
However, the Falcons had no answer for 6-1 outside hitter Britney Duvall who dominated the second and third games with 9 kills in the final game including the final four Spartan points to send Marist to the shut out victory.
"We have things to work on as a team and as individual team mates," Wartenbee explained. "We have a lot of ability, but just need to put all the pieces together."
The Lady Falcons weren't able to make a serious run at Marist until the third game as the Lady Spartans kept Elmira at arms length in the first two games. Senior Carly Grossmiller awoke in the third game sparking the Elmira rally with 6 kills.
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| The Falcons' Maranda Hanson goes up for a kill in Elmira's 3-0 loss to #11Marist Catholic at Elmira High School, Thursday September 13. Photo: Kimberly Lillie |
However, the Falcons had no answer for 6-1 outside hitter Britney Duvall who dominated the second and third games with 9 kills in the final game including the final four Spartan points to send Marist to the shut out victory.
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| Sophomore Josie Dickson serves as Mallory Bailey waits during the Falcons' 3-0 loss to Marist Thursday Septemeber 13. Photo: Kimberly Lillie |
Laing, Monagan Lead Lady Falcons over South Umpqua
Kennady Laing set the tone with two early goals and Kaycee Monagan finished job with two second half goals as the Lady Falcons soccer team routed over matched 3A South Umpqua 4- nil Thursday September 13 at Swartz Field.
With Megan Porter patrolling the center of the field, the Lady Lancers were unable to muster any semblance of an offensive attack. Meanwhile, Lancers' goal keeper Haley McAvoy was assailed with shots all game as Elmira out shot South Umpqua 21-0.
Lainge scored early as the Falcons frequently crowded McAvoy to get off point blank shots on goal.
Monagan scored on a rebound from a Laing shot in the second half and off a corner kick that McAvoy lost control of, bounding into the net for the fourth Falcons' score.
"Kaycee Monagon is starting to get back in to her 2nd-Team All-League form," head coach Rob Lee commented in an email. "She is making some really great passes, setting up our wings for great opportunities down the sideline, and her free kicks are getting locked in as witnessed by her scoring directly from the corner kick for her second goal of the night. Having her back up to speed will really help our offense moving forward in to league play."
The victory left the Lady Falcons 2-2 on the season with one game left in the non-conference schedule. After a neutral site contest with Astoria next Tuesday in Wilsonville, they will open conference play on the road at Cottage Grove on September 25.
"Marist will be a formidable opponent once league play starts," noted Lee, "and Cottage Grove, although they are only 1-2-1, they will also be very tough in league. I think realistically we are looking to fight for 2nd in league with Grove and Junction City. The good news about whatever happens this season is that we get another shot at a league title with all my players returning for next year."
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| Kennady Laing races downfield with the ball against a South Umpqua defender during the Falcons' 4-0 win over the Lady Lancers. Laing scored twice in the contest. Photo: Kimberly Lillie |
With Megan Porter patrolling the center of the field, the Lady Lancers were unable to muster any semblance of an offensive attack. Meanwhile, Lancers' goal keeper Haley McAvoy was assailed with shots all game as Elmira out shot South Umpqua 21-0.
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| Elmira's Maddie Wisner fires one of the Falcons' 21 shots on goal during the Elmira's 4-0 win over South Umpqua Thursday September 13 at Swartz Field. Photo: Kimberly Lillie |
Lainge scored early as the Falcons frequently crowded McAvoy to get off point blank shots on goal.
Monagan scored on a rebound from a Laing shot in the second half and off a corner kick that McAvoy lost control of, bounding into the net for the fourth Falcons' score.
"Kaycee Monagon is starting to get back in to her 2nd-Team All-League form," head coach Rob Lee commented in an email. "She is making some really great passes, setting up our wings for great opportunities down the sideline, and her free kicks are getting locked in as witnessed by her scoring directly from the corner kick for her second goal of the night. Having her back up to speed will really help our offense moving forward in to league play."
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| Elmira's Kaycee Monagan moves downfield during the Falcons' 4-0 win over South Umpqua September 13 at Swartz Field. Photo: Kimberly Lillie |
The victory left the Lady Falcons 2-2 on the season with one game left in the non-conference schedule. After a neutral site contest with Astoria next Tuesday in Wilsonville, they will open conference play on the road at Cottage Grove on September 25.
"Marist will be a formidable opponent once league play starts," noted Lee, "and Cottage Grove, although they are only 1-2-1, they will also be very tough in league. I think realistically we are looking to fight for 2nd in league with Grove and Junction City. The good news about whatever happens this season is that we get another shot at a league title with all my players returning for next year."
Tuesday, September 11, 2018
Falcons JV Moves to 2-0 with Shut Out over North Valley
In a physical, ugly game, the Elmira JV football team managed to out muscle a 6-0 win over visiting North Valley in a game that was originally scheduled to be played in Grants Pass but was moved Swartz Field due to excessive smoke in area.
Defense was the course of the day with both teams being plagued with turnovers... either on downs or by interceptions, capped by Ian Drago's interception with 42 seconds remaining in the game to seal the victory. The defensive performance made Gavin Laing's 6 yard sweep for a touchdown stand up. The win moves the Falcons' JV to 2-0 on the young season.
Defense was the course of the day with both teams being plagued with turnovers... either on downs or by interceptions, capped by Ian Drago's interception with 42 seconds remaining in the game to seal the victory. The defensive performance made Gavin Laing's 6 yard sweep for a touchdown stand up. The win moves the Falcons' JV to 2-0 on the young season.
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| Tailback Gavin Laing (24) sweeps around left in for the Falcons' lone touchdown in the Elmira JV's 6-0 win over North Valley, Friday September 7 at Swartz Field. Photo: Kimberly Lillie |
Nagel Leads Falcons over #15 North Valley
Christmas came early to Head Coach Justin Peeler and his Elmira Falcons in the form of an extra home game. Rumored for days, the contest between North Valley and the Falcons was moved to Swartz Field because of heavy smoke in the Grants Pass area due to wild fires that have plagued the Cascades for weeks. Relieved of the 2 and half hour convoy down, the Falcons climbed on Brady Nagel shoulders to win a wild 31-28 thriller of then #15 North Valley Friday September 7.
Nagel rushed for 162 yards and 4 touchdowns. Cobyn Herbert added 60 yards to the potent Elmira ground game as well as blocking a punt that was returned for a touchdown for the second consecutive week.
"He is fast off the ball and very long," Peeler said of Herbert. "He just seems to have a nose for the ball."
Herbert's block seemed to put the Falcons in control in late in the third period extending the lead to 24-14. However, Toren Tuttle rallied the Knights with a 14 yard touchdown pass to Elijah Colas, closing the lead to three. Nagel then ripped off a 54 yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter to return the lead to 11. Tuttle rebounded North Valley again driving the Knights late in the game and connecting with Colas for a second touchdown with only 32 seconds remaining. Colas' 2 point conversion tightened the score to 31-28. Only a recovery of an on-side kick finally sealed the victory for the Falcons.
The Falcons' offensive line was stellar against a formidable North Valley D-line, rushing for 229 yards and allowing Elmira to build its lead on Nagel TD runs of 28, 2, and 2 yards.
"The line is getting better every week," Peeler commented. "We still need some work on it but we will get there. Brady had some great vision on the outside runs."
Interestingly enough, the win left the Falcons 2-0 and tied in the OSAA rankings at #8 with their next opponent, Philomath. The gamer will be Friday night September 14 at Swartz Field.
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| Receiver Bryson Forsman battles a North Valley defender for a 30 yard reception in the Falcons' 31-28 win Friday September 7. Photo: Kimberly Lillie |
Nagel rushed for 162 yards and 4 touchdowns. Cobyn Herbert added 60 yards to the potent Elmira ground game as well as blocking a punt that was returned for a touchdown for the second consecutive week.
"He is fast off the ball and very long," Peeler said of Herbert. "He just seems to have a nose for the ball."
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| Sophomore Cobyn Herbert (17) blocks a punt for the second consecutive week. It was returned by Gavin Parker (11) for a touchdown in the Falcons' 31-28 victory over North Valley Friday September 7 at Swartz Field. Photo: Kimberly Lillie. |
Herbert's block seemed to put the Falcons in control in late in the third period extending the lead to 24-14. However, Toren Tuttle rallied the Knights with a 14 yard touchdown pass to Elijah Colas, closing the lead to three. Nagel then ripped off a 54 yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter to return the lead to 11. Tuttle rebounded North Valley again driving the Knights late in the game and connecting with Colas for a second touchdown with only 32 seconds remaining. Colas' 2 point conversion tightened the score to 31-28. Only a recovery of an on-side kick finally sealed the victory for the Falcons.
The Falcons' offensive line was stellar against a formidable North Valley D-line, rushing for 229 yards and allowing Elmira to build its lead on Nagel TD runs of 28, 2, and 2 yards.
"The line is getting better every week," Peeler commented. "We still need some work on it but we will get there. Brady had some great vision on the outside runs."
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| Bryce Sawyer moves up field on a 39 yard kick return in Elmira's 31-28 victory over North Valley, Friday September 7 at Swartz Field. Photo: Kimberly Lillie |
Interestingly enough, the win left the Falcons 2-0 and tied in the OSAA rankings at #8 with their next opponent, Philomath. The gamer will be Friday night September 14 at Swartz Field.
Monday, September 10, 2018
Boys Soccer Team Gets Ranked and Then Gets Rolled
"We didn't play our best soccer tonight," boys varsity soccer coach Ryan Chambers said to the opposing Banks coaches after the tangle with Elvira on Thursday September 6 at Swartz Field.
Employing a rough and tumble attack, Banks recovered from an early goal by Mason Oilar to holding the Falcons scoreless in the first half, out-shooting Elmira and general spending the rest of the first half in the their opponents end of the field.
The Falcons scored again on a broken play in front of the Banks goal when Brian Estrada notched a goal over the sprawled Banks goalkeeper for a 2-0 lead. Then Elmira had to withstand the roughneck style of Banks to hold on for a 2-0. The victory left the Falcons 8th ranked by the OSAA with an undefeated record, out scoring their opponents 13-2 in the process.
The accomplishment was short-lived.
If Chambers didn't like the play on Thursday, he definitely was unhappy on Saturday September 8 when the Henley Hornets came in and whipped Elmira by a 4-0 count that wasn't as close as the score indicated. The previously ranked Falcons emerged Saturday morning like they hadn't had their first cup of coffee before the 11 am start. Elmira struggled against a disciplined Hornets attack, surrendering an early goal at the 30:15 mark of the first half. Plagued by a rash of midfield ball losses and uncharacteristic poor passing, Jaden Palmer was forced to defend a barrage of Henley shots. Palmer may have played his finest half of soccer in his short career, collecting 11 first half saves, many of them athletic masterpieces. Henley out shot the Falcons 13-5 in the first half. Most frustrating for Coach Chambers was the goal given up with only 21 seconds remaining in the game, where it seemed that Elmira might have let up in the waning moments of the game.
Complicating the matter was the loss of two starters because they were running cross country. Additionally, Riley Chambers suffered a high ankle sprain at the 5:47 point of the first half and was lost for the remainder of the game as well. The prognosis is good that Chambers will return for the next start.
Employing a rough and tumble attack, Banks recovered from an early goal by Mason Oilar to holding the Falcons scoreless in the first half, out-shooting Elmira and general spending the rest of the first half in the their opponents end of the field.
The Falcons scored again on a broken play in front of the Banks goal when Brian Estrada notched a goal over the sprawled Banks goalkeeper for a 2-0 lead. Then Elmira had to withstand the roughneck style of Banks to hold on for a 2-0. The victory left the Falcons 8th ranked by the OSAA with an undefeated record, out scoring their opponents 13-2 in the process.
The accomplishment was short-lived.
If Chambers didn't like the play on Thursday, he definitely was unhappy on Saturday September 8 when the Henley Hornets came in and whipped Elmira by a 4-0 count that wasn't as close as the score indicated. The previously ranked Falcons emerged Saturday morning like they hadn't had their first cup of coffee before the 11 am start. Elmira struggled against a disciplined Hornets attack, surrendering an early goal at the 30:15 mark of the first half. Plagued by a rash of midfield ball losses and uncharacteristic poor passing, Jaden Palmer was forced to defend a barrage of Henley shots. Palmer may have played his finest half of soccer in his short career, collecting 11 first half saves, many of them athletic masterpieces. Henley out shot the Falcons 13-5 in the first half. Most frustrating for Coach Chambers was the goal given up with only 21 seconds remaining in the game, where it seemed that Elmira might have let up in the waning moments of the game.
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| Guillermo Farje (6) defends against a Henley mid-fielder in the Falcons' 4-0 loss on Saturday September 8 at Swartz Field. Photo: Kimberly Lillie |
Complicating the matter was the loss of two starters because they were running cross country. Additionally, Riley Chambers suffered a high ankle sprain at the 5:47 point of the first half and was lost for the remainder of the game as well. The prognosis is good that Chambers will return for the next start.
Thursday, September 6, 2018
Lady Falcons Volleyball Moves to 4-1 to Start Season
The Lady Falcons Volleyball team traveled north and came off a second set loss to rally to a 3-1 victory over Gladstone. The victory pushed Elmira's record to 3-1 on the young season.
"We were trying a new rotation and had people in different spots, then kept it close the last two sets to come back for the win," commented head coach Sarah Wartenbee. "Consistent serving is our biggest challenge right now. We have given up too many points for it not to be something to work on."
The Lady Falcons were back on the court for the second half of a home and home series with visiting Gladstone on Thursday September 6 at Elmira High School. Despite a close call in the third game, Elmira finished off Gladstone in an hour and 15 minutes, sweeping the Lady Glads 3-0 and allowing the Lady Falcons' record to swell to 4-1 on the young season.
"We were trying a new rotation and had people in different spots, then kept it close the last two sets to come back for the win," commented head coach Sarah Wartenbee. "Consistent serving is our biggest challenge right now. We have given up too many points for it not to be something to work on."
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| Brianna Mills rises to challenge a Madras hitter's shot in a 3-2 loss earlier this season. Photo: Kimberly Lillie |
The Lady Falcons were back on the court for the second half of a home and home series with visiting Gladstone on Thursday September 6 at Elmira High School. Despite a close call in the third game, Elmira finished off Gladstone in an hour and 15 minutes, sweeping the Lady Glads 3-0 and allowing the Lady Falcons' record to swell to 4-1 on the young season.
Elmira Boys Soccer Vaults to #8 in OSAA Rankings
Fresh off a second straight shut out win, the OSAA has taken notice of the Elmira boys soccer team 3-0 record, as well as their gaudy defensive accomplishments so far this season, rewarding them with a #8 ranking in 4A. In three matches, the Falcons have outscored their opponents a combined 11-1.
"I really do not put a lot of stock in early season rankings or predictions," said Head Coach Ryan Chambers in an email. "My goals week to week and game to game are really to just see improvement with ball movement, communication, passing accuracy, and defensive structure. So far, we are improving with those elements every game."
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| Riley Chambers moves the ball upfield in the Falcons' 4-1 home victory over North Bend. Photo: Kimberly Lillie |
Riley Chambers is leading a strong offensive charge early this season with 4 goals and 5 assists. Keegan Cook, Ethan Yost, and senior Mason Oilar have all contributed to the scoring. On the defensive side, coach Chambers sees potential as well.
"Paul Ossowski, Willito Farje, Jacob Admire and new goalie Captain Jaden Palmer are playing well together right now and I expect things to just keep getting stronger on the back line."
Changes in alignment means that the Falcons will have plenty of stern competition on their schedule as former 5A school Marist Catholic and Marshfield both move into the 4A Sky Em for soccer.
"There is potential for every team in our league to be pretty good," noted Chambers. "Every league game this year will be a battle for sure. I have confidence in our players to compete with every team in our league."
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| Falcon's Goalkeeper Jaden Palmer deflects a North Bend shot on goal during Elmira's 4-1 victory on August 28. Photo: Kimberly Lillie
The Falcon's look to go 4-0 Thursday September 6 as they host Banks with a 4:15 start time.
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Tuesday, September 4, 2018
Elmira Opens 2018 with a Bang, Demolishing Suislaw
When asked about the difficult road ahead with three teams in the top five rankings in the 4A-Sky Em Conference, Head Coach Justin Peeler felt like his young, inexperienced Elmira Falcons would be ready for the opening game of the 2018 season against Suislaw. Peeler may have underestimated his team.
With the Falcons scoring in every conceivable ways on both sides of the ball and the Elmira's defensive line bullying the hapless Suislaw offensive line, Peeler's team raced out to a 28-0 first quarter lead and never looked back, punishing the Vikings 74-6 at Suislaw High School in Florence, Friday August 31.
Viking's quarterback Elijah Blankenship was like a lamb led to slaughter. The diminutive Suislaw QB was constantly running for his life from a relentless pass rush led by Cobyn Herbert, who led the team in tackles with 4 and registered the only sack of the night. The pursuit of Blankenship was so vexing that there never seemed a play when Viking passes weren't under extreme duress, rolling out of the pocket and throwing desperately out of bounds. Blankenship was only 6-18 passing for 43 yards and one touchdown. Blankenship was intercepted three times including a pick six by the Falcons' Rowdy Ramirez that made the score 49-0.
In contrast to Blankenship's nightmare, it was the first start for Herbert at quarterback. Throwing sparingly but efficiently, he was 3 for 4 for 43 yards and two touchdown passes. Herbert also blocked a punt and returned it for a touchdown as well. Herbert, the 6-4, 195 pound sophomore, has the confidence of his coach.
"He is a gamer," Peeler said in an email. "He steps it up a whole level when he steps onto the field for games."
Abundantly clear, early in the game, was that Elmira's defensive line had so thoroughly demoralized the Vikings, that the game lost all sense of competitiveness by midway through the second quarter. Elmira's huge halftime lead led officials to run the clock on the "mercy rules", without stopping the clock for out of bounds and first downs for the entire second half.
"Overall, the defense stepped up and dominated the game for us," Peeler commented in an email.
In the wreckage of the aftermath, Elmira could count 5 turnovers forced, holding the opponent to 161 yards and just over 3 yards a play, while accumulating 480 yards and 8 offensive touchdowns. If there was a flaw in the performance it would point to the 12 penalties for 119 yards. However, Gavin Laing came off the JV bench to bolt 70 yards for the final score of the night to salve any tarnish from the officials.
"He is special," Peeler said of Laing, "but we want to give him one year of JV. He will see minutes, hopefully, every week on Varsity. He has the potential to be a great running back."
The next game is another road game own south at North Valley on Friday at 7pm. Victory in the out of league contest promises to be a more daunting accomplishment for the Falcons.
"This will be a better test as to who we are as a team," noted Peeler. "They are big and physical. We need to dominate their line to win this game."
The game will be replayed at 4pm Sunday afternoon by KOCF, 92.5 FM.
With the Falcons scoring in every conceivable ways on both sides of the ball and the Elmira's defensive line bullying the hapless Suislaw offensive line, Peeler's team raced out to a 28-0 first quarter lead and never looked back, punishing the Vikings 74-6 at Suislaw High School in Florence, Friday August 31.
Viking's quarterback Elijah Blankenship was like a lamb led to slaughter. The diminutive Suislaw QB was constantly running for his life from a relentless pass rush led by Cobyn Herbert, who led the team in tackles with 4 and registered the only sack of the night. The pursuit of Blankenship was so vexing that there never seemed a play when Viking passes weren't under extreme duress, rolling out of the pocket and throwing desperately out of bounds. Blankenship was only 6-18 passing for 43 yards and one touchdown. Blankenship was intercepted three times including a pick six by the Falcons' Rowdy Ramirez that made the score 49-0.
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| Suislaw quarterback scrambles away from a heavy rush by Elmira defenders Cobyn Herbert (17) and Ryan Imel (33) during the Falcon's 74-6 rout of the Vikings. Photo by Stan Pusieski/ExplodingWhaleSports.com |
In contrast to Blankenship's nightmare, it was the first start for Herbert at quarterback. Throwing sparingly but efficiently, he was 3 for 4 for 43 yards and two touchdown passes. Herbert also blocked a punt and returned it for a touchdown as well. Herbert, the 6-4, 195 pound sophomore, has the confidence of his coach.
"He is a gamer," Peeler said in an email. "He steps it up a whole level when he steps onto the field for games."
Abundantly clear, early in the game, was that Elmira's defensive line had so thoroughly demoralized the Vikings, that the game lost all sense of competitiveness by midway through the second quarter. Elmira's huge halftime lead led officials to run the clock on the "mercy rules", without stopping the clock for out of bounds and first downs for the entire second half.
"Overall, the defense stepped up and dominated the game for us," Peeler commented in an email.
In the wreckage of the aftermath, Elmira could count 5 turnovers forced, holding the opponent to 161 yards and just over 3 yards a play, while accumulating 480 yards and 8 offensive touchdowns. If there was a flaw in the performance it would point to the 12 penalties for 119 yards. However, Gavin Laing came off the JV bench to bolt 70 yards for the final score of the night to salve any tarnish from the officials.
"He is special," Peeler said of Laing, "but we want to give him one year of JV. He will see minutes, hopefully, every week on Varsity. He has the potential to be a great running back."
The next game is another road game own south at North Valley on Friday at 7pm. Victory in the out of league contest promises to be a more daunting accomplishment for the Falcons.
"This will be a better test as to who we are as a team," noted Peeler. "They are big and physical. We need to dominate their line to win this game."
The game will be replayed at 4pm Sunday afternoon by KOCF, 92.5 FM.
JV Gridders Roll in Opener
The future of Elmira Falcons looks brighter after the JV Gridders won a wild 58-27 contest over Dallas that was called at the 3:37 mark of the fourth quarter due to a serious arm injury to Dragon tail back Jared Gunn, requiring a lengthy ambulance response. Gunn was reported to be in good condition and would not need surgery.
Defense was at a premium in the first half as the Falcons and Dragons exchanged touchdowns in the first quarter. However, the Falcons’ defense stiffened in the second quarter withstanding two long Dallas drives and keeping the Dragons out of the endzone. This while the Falcons’ quick striking offense scored twice to give Elmira a 28-13 halftime lead.
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| Nat Brown runs for a 25 yard touchdown in the Falcons' JV victory over Dallas. Photo: Kimberly Lillie |
Elmira took the opening kickoff and extended its lead to 36-13 on Gavin Laing’s 50 yard burst. After an interception by Landen Parker, the Falcon’s scored again on a Nat Brown 6 yard touchdown pass from Ian Drago to give Elmira an insurmountable 42-13 lead, despite the fact that Dallas dominated in time of possesion.
Lainge led the Falcons with 140 yards rushing and 3 touchdowns on only 5 carries.
Lady Falcons Soccer Rebound; Blank Sweet Home
When Head Coach Rob Lee’s Lady Falcons soccer team stumbled out of the gate with a forgettable 7-0 loss, he was optimistic that the growing process for the team was still assured, despite no senior leadership
“This is my 10th season as head coach and this is definitely the most inexperienced team,” Lee responded in an email. “However, “inexperienced” doesn’t mean “untalented”... we definitely have some great talent and there are multiple diamonds in the rough that I look forward to developing into future shining stars.”
Lee was proven right.
Kennady Laing scored twice and Megan Porter scored late to provide the frosting on the cake as Elmira blanked the Sweet Home 3-0 Thursday, August 31 at Elmira High School. The victory evened the Lady Falcons record to 1-1.
Shaking off a sluggish, scoreless first half, where goalkeeper Andrah Cobb fended off numerous first half shots on goal, the Lady Falcons wound up spending the bulk of the second half on the Lady Huskies’ end of the field as Porter led strong mid-field play that diffused the Sweet Home offense. It contributed to all three goals including Lainge’s two breakaway goals.
“Kennady Laing is a returning first-team all-league player, who is arguably the fastest girl in the league, let alone our team. Finding her with a ball in open space is deadly for any opponent,” Lee noted.
Elmira got their final score when, Porter, who dominated mid-field play in the second half, lobbed a 30 yard goal over the outstretched reach of Lady Husky goalkeeper Moira Curtis. It was Porter’s first goal as a varsity player. Lee was quick to praise his junior team co-captain.
“Megan Porter has been a solid rock player the past two seasons as well. This is definitely her breakout year as all the other senior defenders graduated last season. She is fully capable of playing any position on the field and can strike from distance if given an opportunity.”
When asked about the 10 goal swing from the North Bend game to yesterday’s victory, Coach Lee was frank.
“North Bend was just a much better team and they overwhelmed us. I think the biggest progress from Tuesday to Thursday was just getting the first game under our belt. The girls finally saw and felt what it was like to play full field 11v11 on Tuesday and so by Thursday they were more prepared for it.”
“This is my 10th season as head coach and this is definitely the most inexperienced team,” Lee responded in an email. “However, “inexperienced” doesn’t mean “untalented”... we definitely have some great talent and there are multiple diamonds in the rough that I look forward to developing into future shining stars.”
Lee was proven right.
Kennady Laing scored twice and Megan Porter scored late to provide the frosting on the cake as Elmira blanked the Sweet Home 3-0 Thursday, August 31 at Elmira High School. The victory evened the Lady Falcons record to 1-1.
Shaking off a sluggish, scoreless first half, where goalkeeper Andrah Cobb fended off numerous first half shots on goal, the Lady Falcons wound up spending the bulk of the second half on the Lady Huskies’ end of the field as Porter led strong mid-field play that diffused the Sweet Home offense. It contributed to all three goals including Lainge’s two breakaway goals.
“Kennady Laing is a returning first-team all-league player, who is arguably the fastest girl in the league, let alone our team. Finding her with a ball in open space is deadly for any opponent,” Lee noted.
Elmira got their final score when, Porter, who dominated mid-field play in the second half, lobbed a 30 yard goal over the outstretched reach of Lady Husky goalkeeper Moira Curtis. It was Porter’s first goal as a varsity player. Lee was quick to praise his junior team co-captain.
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| Megan Porter battles a Sweet Home midfielder in the Lady Falcons' 3-0 victory |
When asked about the 10 goal swing from the North Bend game to yesterday’s victory, Coach Lee was frank.
“North Bend was just a much better team and they overwhelmed us. I think the biggest progress from Tuesday to Thursday was just getting the first game under our belt. The girls finally saw and felt what it was like to play full field 11v11 on Tuesday and so by Thursday they were more prepared for it.”
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