By Joe Parello (@HerewegoJoe)
Xaverian completed a perfect season and captured the Massachusetts Division 1 high school football championship Saturday at Gillette Stadium, surviving a late rally from rival Everett.
The 38-29 win was the second victory for the Hawks over the Tide this season, and capped a year that saw Xaverian earn nearly unanimous praise as the Commonwealth's best team.
A powerful offensive line was assisted by Northwestern commitment Joe Gaziano, who often motioned across the formation from his tight end position to lay massive blocks and open up room for running back Noah Sorrento. Speaking of Sorrento, the versatile back and linebacker had himself a game, rushing for 187 yards and four touchdowns, just one score shy of the MIAA Super Bowl record.
The Hawks overcame a quick score from Everett to build a 31-14 halftime lead behind three Sorrento rushing scores and a Jake Farrell touchdown pass to fullback Kenny Kern.
Everett would bounce back, however, with some crisp passing from quarterback Jordan McAfee. The sophomore showed tremendous grit and a silky smooth throwing motion, finding play maker Lukas Denis and explosive running back Nick Orekoya for a touchdown each to cut the Hawk lead to 31-29 in the third quarter.
But the Hawks would answer with another big run from Sorrento. The senior broke five tackles to scamper 25 yards and extend the lead to 38-29. Moments later, a highlight reel interception by Coby Tippett got the ball back for Xaverian.
A few sacks by big Joe Gaziano would ice things, and the Hawks completed a perfect season in perfect fashion.
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