Hurricanes end IC's unbeaten run

For all the attention on an undefeated Immaculate Conception team breaking its way to a 4-0 start to the season, the Knights sure didn’t have the strength to compete with the Marian Central Hurricanes Sept. 21. The nonconference matchup resulted in a solid 37-7 Hurricane victory led by a commendable defensive effort sparked by senior Tony Milone’s 40-yard interception in the second quarter. 

“We told them [the players] they were going to be a very physical team,” said head coach Ed Brucker. “Some of the kids say that was one of the most physical teams they played in a long time. Our defense stepped up and played very well.”

Milone’s interception ignited a furious push from the Hurricanes (5-0 overall; 1-0 SCC Blue) to build their modest 14-7 lead. 

“We prepared for it all week going man-to-man with them, and I just ran with the guy and made the play,” said Milone. “They’re a very physical team, and we just came right back at them and that is a big part of getting momentum.”

Senior quarterback Chris Streveler, who completed 12 of 21 passes for 153 yards, and junior running back Ephraim Lee took turns running the ball. Thanks to a bold effort by the offensive line, Streveler was eventually able to break free and complete a 27-yard touchdown run into the middle of the end zone with 2:25 left in the half. 

Senior Trent Faunce’s kick was good to build Marian’s lead to 14 points. As the Knights (4-1 overall; 2-0 SCC Gold) tried to get in a few more points, senior Liam Kirwan and junior Josh Olsen took turns sacking quarterback Demetrius Carr. 

The plays took the wind out of the Knight’s sails and set Marian on course for victory. The Hurricanes scored twice in the second half with a 9-yard touchdown run by Lee and a 10-yard touchdown pass from Streveler to junior Brett Olsen.

Olsen logged four receptions for his team while Faunce, Lee and senior Kevin Kearley added two each. Seniors Greg Walczak and Tommy Waytula each contributed one reception to the Hurricane’s 448 offensive yards.

Lee led Marian in rushing with 21 carries for 180 yards.

Marian will face St. Francis in Wheaton at 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 28.