Alliance shuts out Ellet, improving season record to 3-1

Alliance Head Coach Tim Goodman instructs during the game. (Photo: Chuck Cordes/Ohsfbmedia.com)

AKRON, Ohio - The Alliance Aviators got a decisive victory against Akron Ellet, winning 26-0 in an away game at Joseph P. Yost Stadium, improving their season record to 3-1.

In the opening quarter, both teams' defenses were on display, resulting in several 3-and-out or turnover-on-down situations, as there were no scoring or big plays. Alliance struggled against linebacker Brandon Knowles, who recorded multiple sacks and tackles for losses.

Aviator defense smothers Terrance Parker (6) during early game action. (Photo: Chuck Cordes/Ohsfbmedia.com)

Ellet had an opportunity after regaining possession of a fumble with 2:07 remaining, but they would relinquish it again just two plays later. Ellet's quarterback, Demetrius Halsell, threw an interception to Johnny Beltz with less than two minutes left in the quarter, resulting in no points scored. The quarter would end in a tie, with a score of 0-0. 

"We came out a little bit sluggish, looked over them a tad bit, said Jackson.

In the latter half, Alliance would ignite, gaining scores through significant plays by Walsh University commit JR Jackson and running back Ravhan Hawkins. He would score with a 58-yard run, marking the first points for Alliance, while Jackson would connect on another play to wide receiver Taije Nicholoson, resulting in a lengthy catch and run touchdown. With these plays, Alliance would swiftly take a 13-0 lead, maintaining that score as they entered halftime. 

Alliance running back Ravhan Hawkins scores on a big play running past Jaloni Austin (7) and Jamelle Jones (20) en route to a 58-yard touchdown. (Photo: Chuck Cordes/Ohsfbmedia.com)

The second half would be all Alliance; Ellet could not punch it in as they were close on multiple occasions, even when they had Alliance pitted inside their own 10-yard line because of self-inflicting penalties that would have them with a first and fifty. 

Jackson would make plays on offense with his arm and with his legs as he rushed for a score with 10:36 left in the third quarter to go up 20-0. "I just want to shout out to my coaches, my offensive line, my defense, they give me the opportunity to be the player I am."

To secure the win, Jackson delivered a touchdown pass to Alex Hartman late in the game, with 6:09 remaining, which ensured the win and improved their record to 3-1 in the Eastern Buckeye Conference. 

Head Coach Tim Goodman was pleased as the game commenced, "Second quarter, we kinda woke up a little bit, we came out a little sluggish to start the game, we had a big victory last week against a really good team [Streetsboro]," he added.

JR Jackson scores on a QB keeper at the top of the third quarter. (Photo: Chuck Cordes/Ohsfbmedia.com)

The Aviators will play winless Canton Central Catholic at home in week five of the season, as Ellet will travel to Mogadore, which is rolling at 3-1 so far this season.