DANVERS — When you’re the favorite, it’s easy to skip steps and take your opponent lightly – that’s how upsets happen. But Friday night at Glatz Field, top-ranked St. John’s Prep took care of business in no time.
The Eagles flew away from No. 8 Methuen in a Division 1 showdown. The final score was 44-7 in favor of the hosts.
The Prep came out of the gates hot, needing just two plays to find the endzone. After holding the Rangers to a three-and-out, freshman quarterback Chris Vargas completed a pass to Merrick Barlow, which set up a 12-yard rushing touchdown from Jeff Quigley. After the 2-point conversion, the Eagles held an early 8-0 cushion.
All season long, the Eagles have relied on their running game and up-front blocking. It was no different Friday.
After a Methuen punt, Prep running back Gael Garcia carried 41 yards before being dragged down at the 1-yard line. On the very next play, the Eagles went back to Garcia, who punched it in from a yard out to make it 16-0 after another two-point conversion.
After a few home-team field goals, it looked like things could get out of hand, but after a facemask penalty gave Methuen strong field position, the visitors found the back of the endzone thanks to a 2-yard score from Josh Danella to make it 22-7 at halftime.
Whatever momentum Methuen thought it had from its second-quarter score was exacerbated. That’s because Dayvian Sullivan housed a second-half kickoff 76 yards to give the Eagles a 30-7 lead.
The Prep’s defense (5 INT) delivered a strong game. Lucas Pelletier intercepted a ball and quickly returned one to the 5-yard line. Once the offense came out, the Eagles gave it to Deacon Robillard who punched in another score.
Now, it’s onto the semifinals for the sixth consecutive season. The Prep will take on No. 4 Needham at Burlington High. Friday’s kickoff is slated for 6 p.m.