Lincoln University, Pa. — After an historic performance over Cheyney last week, the Lincoln University football team failed to capitalize on that potential momentum, falling 33-10 to the University of New Haven Saturday at Avon Grove High School.
The Lions entered as the more experienced club with the Chargers of New Haven starting their first season since 2003.
In spirited play, New Haven jumped out to a quick 10-0 lead in the first period after a Michael Herrera 42 yard field goal and a Demetrius Washington-Ellis nine-yard touchdown reception from quarterback Ryan Osieski.
Things did not get any better for the Lions in the second quarter. A three-yard run from running back Andrew Nass followed by a Victor James 39 yard run gave New Haven a 23-0 cushion at the half.
Lincoln struggled, earning only three first downs and just 34 total yards of offense compared to New Haven's 239.
Lincoln would get on the board in the third period thanks to Rahsaan Lisimba (Philadelphia, PA/Penn Wood) (Philadelphia) connecting on a 24 yard field goal. After coming out of the game twice due to injury, Nass answered with a one yard run to go up 30-3.
The third quarter was by far the best for the Lions, winning the frame, 10-7. Lincoln sustained a nice drive resulting in a Kareem Dennis (Philadelphia, PA/Lincoln) (Philadelphia) one-yard strike to Trey Thomas (Canton, GA/Woodstock) (Canton, Ga.) to make it 30-10. Dennis finished with 122 yards completing 14 of 28 attempts.
Lincoln could not hold the momentum in the final quarter with New Haven's ground game eating up the clock. UNH held the ball for 10 minutes compared to Lincoln's five. Herrera dialed in on his second field goal of the day en route to the Charger's 33-10 lead.
For New Haven, Osieski, who is a transfer from Louisville, threw for 247 yards and a touchdown, going 22 for 33. Sharieff Hall was a recipient of eight of those passes for 119 yards. Nass had a solid day on the ground, churning out 84 yards on 22 carries.
For the Lions, there were some bright spots. Brandon McElwee (Gloucester City, N.J./Gloucester City Junior and Senior HS) (Gloucester City, N.J.) continued his stellar play from last year. The sophomore linebacker recorded 15 total tackles to go along with 2 sacks. His partner in crime, fellow linebacker Brucelee Sterile (Miami, Fla./North Miami Beach HS) (Miami, Fla.) finished with 12 tackles. On the offensive side, freshman wide out Matthew Coston (Queens, N.Y./Dover HS) (Brooklyn, N.Y./Dover) made a crowd-pleasing, leaping catch in the third quarter to set up the Lions' first field goal. He finished the afternoon with 4 catches for 46 yards.
The Lions return to the field for their second of three straight home games on Sept. 12, against CIAA foe Southern Virginia. Kickoff is slated for 1:00 at Avon Grove High School. Fans can catch all the action on BrandywineRadio.org
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