HS FOOTBALL: Devils defeat CMVT 51-26 for first 1-0 start in 16 years
KAYLEE LINDENMUTH / SHENANDOAH SENTINEL - Shenandoah Valley's Nick Ryan (9) intercepts a Columbia Montour Vo-Tech pass on August 25, 2023.
SHENANDOAH – The last time a Shenandoah Valley football squad began a season 1-0, they were defending District XI champions.
The Devils — whom print newspapers gave dismal chance for success this season — had an explosive showing en route to a rout of the Rams of Columbia Montour Vo-Tech Friday night, 51-26.
QB Ben Dempster connected with WR Nick Ryan four times for paydirt, with Dempster adding two rushing touchdowns on the day.
“They’re two of the best players in the area,” Moran said. “Ben bulked up this year, he’s a bigger quarterback this year. He got better every single week [last year] and it showed tonight. He had great decision making, and Nick Ryan is one of the best athletes in the county and one of the best receivers in the state.”
“I was really proud of our kids up front,” Moran said. “Up front, they made the game for us.”
Shenandoah Valley had only one win last year, coming from a road trip to Hancock, Maryland, and the victory over CMVT is the first season opening victory since a 33-0 victory over North Schuylkill.
“I’m thrilled for our boys, but we want more,” Moran added. “We’re going to enjoy this one, and then we’re going to go get after Upper Dauphin.”
Joel Nunez also scored on a 72-yard run.
Shenandoah’s defense also came through Friday, forcing multiple turnovers, including an interception by Ryan, and forcing a safety.
The Devils are on the road next week, traveling to Upper Dauphin.
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