In a commanding performance, the Coatesville Red Raiders secured a 14-0 victory over Council Rock South during the District 1 6A quarterfinals on Friday evening. The game showcased the importance of strong defense and impactful plays, as Coatesville executed their game plan flawlessly.
Running back Andre Watson scored two touchdowns, while the defense achieved its first shutout of the season. This win allows the Red Raiders, now 10-2 and seeded fourth, to advance to their first semifinal since 2021. They will face the top seed, Pennridge, next Friday for a chance to compete in the finals.
Senior Elias Hanson expressed his excitement about reaching this stage, saying, “It feels really good. This is my first time, but it”s been awhile since Coatesville”s been in it. So, it feels real good to be here with my friends and teammates and coaches to get the city of Coatesville back to this level.”
The Red Raiders” defense played a pivotal role in the victory, limiting Council Rock South to just 41 yards of total offense and two first downs in the second half. Over their last three games, Coatesville has allowed only 17 points.
Coach Matt Ortega praised his team”s effort, stating, “We”re happy to play. All you”re worried about right now is moving on. I”m just proud of the effort of our kids. They came out and executed when we needed to execute and played great defense, but it”s been complimentary football all season.” He noted that the team started strong with an explosive offense and is now seeing the defense hitting its stride.
For Council Rock South, the game presented missed opportunities in the first half. Coach CJ Szydlik acknowledged, “I think we were a little undermanned. But, that”s not an excuse. Our kids played their hearts out. They”re a really good football team. When they”re clicking they”re really tough.” He expressed his support for Coatesville, saying, “Truly hope they win more games because obviously, if you knock us out, we”ll cheer for you now.”
In the first quarter, both teams struggled to find the end zone. Coatesville made an early move into South”s territory but lost possession due to a fumble. Council Rock South attempted to capitalize on their own offensive drives but fell short multiple times.
The game”s momentum shifted when Watson broke through for a 40-yard touchdown run, putting Coatesville up 7-0. He described his run, saying, “It”s just instincts. Following my guys. I set the guy up and got outside of him.” Later, Council Rock South managed their longest play of the game, a 38-yard completion from quarterback Marley Emerson to Nate Szydlik, but another opportunity was thwarted by an interception from Hanson.
Despite the challenges, Council Rock South remained competitive. However, they faced further difficulties when Szydlik limped off the field, impacting their ability to execute plays effectively. “He got hurt a couple of weeks ago and re-aggravated it and couldn”t go,” Szydlik explained.
Coatesville continued to push forward, and Watson sealed the game with a second touchdown run of 44 yards, bringing the score to 14-0 with just over three minutes left. Ortega praised Watson”s abilities, stating, “He”s been an unbelievable spark for our program.”
With the win secured, Coatesville celebrated their advancement while Council Rock South reflected on a strong season. Coach Szydlik noted, “It”s probably one of the best seasons that Council Rock has had, so I can”t be sad there. These seniors have built a foundation for us. We will be back in the playoffs. We have a really good young group, so we”re just building it from here.”
As Coatesville prepares for their upcoming challenge against Pennridge, Ortega is aware of the tough road ahead. “It”s going to be another Suburban One team that”s going to be very physical,” he said. “We”re excited for the opportunity, so it will be a great game.”
