The Green Wave came from behind twice in the 2nd half powered by 2 Drew Donovan touchdowns and some stout defense, to win 26-21 in an instant classic.
They advance to the Division 6 Super Bowl. Head Coach Jim Kelliher gets credit for his 300th victory.
Full game story to come shortly.
The big news is that Head Coach Jim Kelliher – who is chasing win 300 – is NOT at tonight’s game. He is home in COVID related quarantine.
Athletic Director Peter Serino said coaching duties will be divided among the assistants. He said no other Green Wave players or coaches are in quarantine.
“Credit to the coaches and kids for following the guidelines,” he said.
Kelliher goes into tonight’s game sitting on 299 career wins. Only a handful of Massachusetts football coaches have cracked that milestone. It took Kelliher 36 years to win his first 200 games, but just 11 years to win the next 99, as Abington’s football program established itself in recent years as a perennial title contender. Kelliher marked his 500th game on Abington’s sidelines back on Oct. 10 against Rockland – which was Abington’s only loss of the season.
It’s much chillier tonight than last week, with temps projected to start in the low 40s, and dip into the 30s. This may mean Abington’s running attack will again be the primary offensive focus.
It’s 7-6 after 1 quarter. Saint Mary’s moved the ball quickly against Abington on its 1st drive, with Ali Barry running it in from 27 yd out.
Abington nearly saw its 1st drive stall out with a 4th and 7 in its own territory. However a Saint Mary’s pass interference penalty gave them new life and 8 plays later Isaiah Ricketson punched it in from one yard out.
The 2 point conversion came up short however.
It’s 14-6, Saint Mary’s over Abington at halftime. Saint Mary’s running back David Brown and quarterback Ali Barry have been able to pick up chunks of yardage. Both are quick shifty runners who have been able to get around Abington’s edge.
The Green Wave have been able to move the ball, but have been hampered by a fumble and two dropped passes.