by Matt Rosenthal ‘22

Senior receiver Idris Elburuji storms 98-yards down the field, scoring a touchdown.  Photo by Sherwood Athletics

On October 8, the Warriors Senior Night was spoiled by the Northwest Jaguars. Sherwood lost their first game of the season 37-14, and the Warrior’s season record dropped to 5-1. 

The first quarter was a defensive battle mixed with penalties. As a result, neither team could put together a sustained drive, with the only score a Northwest receiving TD in the middle of the quarter. Senior linebacker Liam Haley had an interception to swing some momentum in the Warriors’ favor. 

The second quarter started with senior quarterback Anthony Comeau being sacked in the endzone for a safety. A big run by Northwest set up another receiving TD put the Jaguars up 15-0 after senior running back Dillon Beidleman blocked the point after attempt. A botched long snap and near 4th down conversion by senior receiver Sean Scott placed Northwest deep in Sherwood territory. A rushing TD and a successful two-point conversion put Northwest up 23-0. The Jaguars were playing ferociously and the Warriors couldn’t put anything together. “The entire half was spent on our side of the field,” said Head Coach Andrew Fields.  

All hope looked lost for the Warriors until senior receiver Idris Elburuji exploded for a 98-yard kick return touchdown. After another Northwest TD, Scott caught a 43-yard pass from Comeau that set up a Beidleman score. While the Warriors were down 30-14 headed into halftime, momentum appeared to be headed their way. “The kids never quit,” said Fields, “they kept fighting.”

The third quarter was a stagnant one. Both teams tried to put together drives, but each defense shined. The chances for a Warriors comeback was lost midway through the fourth when a Northwest screen pass was taken 50-yards to put the Jaguars up 37-14. “We may not see another team with the sheer speed that Northwest had, so it was good for our kids to see it and be able to understand how they need to elevate their play,” said Fields

Fortunately, the Warriors’ playoff chances are not impacted by this loss, as all Maryland high school football teams are guaranteed a playoff spot this season. The Warriors look to return to their winning ways on October 15 when they travel to face the 5-1 Blair Blazers at 6:30 p.m.