Neshaminy Defense Keys Semi-Final Win

Somewhere in an early coaches' diary, these words are written. "You have to score to win, but above all defense wins championships."
These words were never more true than in this week's semi-final inaugural Pennsylvania Football News / Hal Wilson Challenge.

Three sacks and two interceptions for the Redskins vs none for the opposing Coal Township team pretty much spelled the story of the way the game went.
Coal Township, indeed, had a powerful squad. They had knocked off two of the finest WPIAL teams in North Hills (24-21) and Uniontown (26-17). This was not lost on Neshaminy coach Jack Swartz.

"This Coal Township team could run on anyone. All of their backs had good yardage today. It's just that we prevented any big plays and our defense came up with some key plays when we had to.  I never thought we'd shut out this team. I just want to tell my team that I am very proud of what they did here today, and I want to congratulate Coach (Walter) Marshall on his fine team."

Big plays was what defined this game as Coal Township actually held the ball for over five minutes more than the opposition.
"We just didn't give Lamar (Switzer) the time he needed to set up for the passing game," Coach Marshall said. "We did control and move the ball, but that team over there could flow to the ball. They seemed to never be out of position. Their two picks were big time plays and they killed us. We needed to score that first two times we went deep into their territory. We hadn't kicked that many field goals and I thought we could go for the 4th and short both times. We didn't make either and that set the tone. I'll take full responsibility. I also want to mention the skill of their QB Pete Cordelli. He and that kid who scored on the interception (Dale Forchetti) took it to us. They are great athletes. And their backs are solid. That fullback Traney has the tenacity of a courtroom lawyer. He just doesn't give an inch."

This was a day when Coach Marshall might have mentioned each and every player on the 'Skins team. They all played exceptionally well. Their reward? The finals of this historic event and a game against a very familiar foe over the years - the Pennsbury Falcons. The "oooooooooooo" from the crowd of an estimated 17,000 at Pitt Stadium when the Pennsbury-Berwick game final score was announced over the PA system portends the hype that is sure to come when the backyard rivals meet next weekend in the championship game. This game will not only be carried by flagship radio station WBCB-AM, 1490, Levittown, Bucks County statewide, but PCN TV will also provide television coverage. The game is tentatively set in rustic Lewisburg at Bucknell's Christy Mathewson Stadium. Even with the television and radio coverage, expect an SRO crowd. It is also possible the game will be moved to the Bucks County area.

Event promoter Rich Vetock has beefed up security and guaranteed a first class event. The affable Vetock will himself sing the National Anthem and has enlisted the services of dr. Bob Lombardi of the PIAA as the game manager. Head official will be Bus Carr with longtime NFL official and former WPIAL boss Ace Heberling in the crew. Also in the officiating crew will be Ed Conklin, Dan Leitzel and Chris Fivek.

The first man to step on the moon, Buzz Armstrong will reportedly deliver a "one small step for man, one giants step for Eastern PA Football" to start the game. Andy Reid, head coach of the Eagles is expected to be in attendance; TO will not.

Don't miss next week's game. It is a "must see."
 

Neshaminy - student body left- Guards (Charlie Conger and Joe Chamberlain) can be seen pulling while Bruce Traney looks to block just in front of Pete Schupackus ( 6-3, 210 pound halfback) as Cordelli tosses the leather to Joe Sroba.  That's about 750 pounds leading Sroba around left end.  There were a few times when Cordelli tried to get out there as well (and he was a tough 195 pound quarterback).  At about 180 Sroba was the "little guy" in the backfield.     Neshaminy will meet rival Pennsbury for the mythical inaugural PFN Wilson Challenge Title. The game date and time will be announced soon as negotians continue with radio station WBCB.	.....	Neshaminy's Bruce Traney scoring on his 2-yard reception from Pete Cordelli. Dale Forchetti's PAT was successful and gave the Skins a 10-0 lead in the second quarter against Coal Township.