Federal Way Eagles Soar Over Bethel
By Steven Dion

A crisp September evening in Federal Way was the setting of a league matchup between the host Eagles and Bethel Braves. The combination of running back Chico McClatcher and quarterback Keenan Curran of the home team set the tone for their offensive onslaught. Both players found the end zone in the first quarter in addition to a Max Lautalo receiving score to build a 19-0 lead after one period of play. Federal Way’s defensive front seven kept the Bethel offense off balance for the bulk of the contest by stopping the run on early downs and forcing them into third and long situations which were defended well. As well as their third and long downs, Bethel had a handful of scoring chances in the first half foiled by penalties and turnovers. However, Braves kicker LT Bailey put the pigskin between the uprights from 45 yards out late in the second quarter for Bethel’s only points of the first half. Halftime score was 25-3 in favor of the Eagles.

The third quarter was highlighted by a 96 yard scamper by Curran which essentially sealed the victory for the home squad early in the second half. But Bethel finished strong by ending sustained drives with touchdowns by Quentin Freeman and Blake Schwartz. Braves’ stocky ball carrier Jon Concepcion ran well in the second half with big pickups through the Eagle defense, requiring multiple tacklers. When the final buzzer sounded, the scoreboard read 45-18 in favor of Federal Way. The two upcoming collegiate prospects in McClatcher and Curran made big plays all night long in front of the home crowd.

Top Performers:
Federal Way
Keenan Curran – 3 rushing TDs of 96, 72, 19yds. 1 passing TD of 49yds.
Chico McClatcher – reception TD of 49yds, rushing TD of 67yds, passing TD of 52yds