By KYLE LUTZ / The Intelligencer/Wheeling News-Register
ST. CLAIRSVILLE — Wheeling Park’s Andrew Glass has had a memorable weekend to say the least. On Friday night, he kicked four extra points for the Patriots in a football uniform against Zanesville in a 35-34 victory.
His final extra point happened to be the game-winner. On Saturday, Glass came in through the clutch again during the Class 5A OVAC title match against University at Red Devil Stadium.
With the score tied at 1-1, the junior found the back of the net right at the 56-minute mark. It just happened to be the game-winner as well as Wheeling Park (12-1) came out with a 2-1 victory over the Hawks (10-4).
“I just finished what I started and know what I have to do and that’s what I do,” Glass said. “Just finish it.”
It was the second time this year the Patriots defeated the Hawks. Earlier in the season, Wheeling Park secured a 2-1 victory. And if that wasn’t deja vu enough, the Patriots had to play from behind in the early going again as Riley Nett gave the Hawks a 1-0 advantage with 35:48 left on the clock in the first half. The Patriots didn’t lose their composure.
On the Hawks’ side of the field, Wheeling Park had a throw-in opportunity and took advantage. With a perfect throw, Chris Romanek secured the equalizer to put the score at 1-1.
“Congratulations to Wheeling Park,” University coach Michael Smith said. “They definitely got us when it comes to depth.”
Early in the second half, Glass found the back of the net for the game winner.
University had a great opportunity to tie the game with about 26 minutes left to play. Awarded a direct kick, the Hawks put a good shot on the goal, but the ball was just a bit too high as it hit the top of the crossbar.
Park’s Zach Calvert collected four saves while UHS’ Timmy Bailey had six. The Hawks and Patriots also met in last year’s title game where the Hawks secured the victory.
“These OVAC games are always tight,” Wheeling Park coach Mario Julian said. “Thursday (against Morgantown) was tight. This one was tight and that’s to be expected.
“You know that these games stay close because there’s a trophy on the line and the kids really enjoy this OVAC tournament. It’s a great tournament.”
