…..On Friday, September 6, Pelham played their first game of the season at the brand new Memorial field in Mt Vernon. The field was almost $5,000 to rent for one game, however, the $5 admission fee paid for most of it. The hefty price may seem like a loss, but the stadium experience made it all worth it. 

…..Fans took the stands as the adrenaline built up on the field. The 3000 plus seats were more than enough to hold the hundreds of students and parents that attended. “It was a new experience for sure,” Jake Fellner said when asked about the stadium. Fellner said, “We were up much higher than usual, it felt a lot more like a big game.” 

…..At 7pm the boys took on Dobbs Ferry under the lights at the stadium, hoping to secure a home victory for their first game. Dobbs Ferry started off strong with an early touchdown to lead, and a second shortly after making it a 14-0 lead. Pelham had two touchdowns called back by a flag in the first half, one by Matt Hirsch and the other to James Romano. Pelham was disheartened, but the team’s ambition came to life in the second half. After only a couple minutes of play in the second half, Matt Hirsch ran in for a touchdown making the score 14-7. The defense took the field and made a crucial stop, setting up another scoring opportunity for Pelham. Frankie Reese threw a second touchdown pass to James Romano, which was approved, tying the game. 

…..By this point, both teams were equally aggressive, making for an exhilarating game. Dobbs Ferry scored again, leaving the score at a 20-14 lead by the opposing team. However, with only a few minutes left, Peyton Kerr ran in for a touchdown making the score 21-20. Dobbs Ferry with their final drive was able to enter field goal range, but was stopped by the defense at 4th down. Dobbs had the advantage, and they were only a field goal away from the win before Christian King opportunely blocked the kick. The stands were engulfed in cheers. 

…..The end of the game was an electric mix of thrill and relief, and the team celebrated their first win on the field. “All of us were excited about the win,” said Junior Center Jack Kelly. It was truly a perfect ending to a great game at Memorial Field.