Hewlett Bulldogs Top South Side Cyclones, 35-14

The Hewlett Bulldogs high-octane offense was too much for the South Side Cyclones to handle on Saturday, scoring 35 points with a precise passing and option run game en route to a 35-14 win at South Side High School.

South Side scored its first two touchdowns of the season in the second half, and running back Eric Willie carried the ball 32 times for 190 yards and touchdown.

"The O-line stayed on their blocks," South Side head coach Phil Onesto said of why Willie had one of the best rushing games of his varsity career. "The team showed a lot of fight. They didn't get down on themselves and realized they could play with anyone."

Junior quarterback Cole Considine also threw his first touchdown pass of the season, connecting on a 37-yard strike to Zach Scaduto. "They definitely got the monkey off their back," Onesto said of the offense. "He made a great read and made a great throw."

Unfortunately for South Side, the touchdown came with about eight minutes left in the game, and the Cyclones were down 35-7. Nonetheless, the Cyclones overall run game produced more than 200 yards, a vast improvement from its season opening loss to Valley Stream South.

The Cyclones two scoring drives — both for 72 yards — seemed to ignite the defense. After the first score, South Side forced Hewlett into a three-and-out. After scoring on its next possession, the Cyclones executed a perfect onside kick, but couldn't move the offense down the field for a third score.

Hewlett quarterback Mark Rizzo was excellent in the win, passing for 101 yards and two touchdowns, and rushing for 54 yards and two scores. Rizzo ran Hewlett's option run game to perfection, dicing up South Side's defense for three quarters until he was taken out midway through the third quarter. 

"He's an outstanding athlete," said Hewlett head coach Jay Iaquinta. "He runs our offense and executes it well."

South Side plays at Great Neck on Sept. 24 at 1:30 p.m.