Woodberry Forest started fast and furious against an Eastern Christian Academy squad that seemed poised to be the Tigers’ biggest test of the year. But after a lull in the second quarter, Woodberry had to slam the door shut in the second half and the defense was up to the task, shutting out ECA after the break en route to a 37-12 victory.
Nathaniel Tyrell unleashed what’s quickly become all but part of the game plan from the senior defensive back — an electrifying touchdown in some phase of the game. This time Tyrell’s explosive score came on an 81-yard punt return. He’s scored more touchdowns than anyone on the Woodberry roster through four games despite not playing offense, with two coming on punt returns, one on an interception and another on a kick return.
The Tigers found a lot of success on the ground against ECA, with H.T. Minor rushing for 86 yards and a touchdown on 12 touches in his return to the lineup. Through the air, it was Lindell Stone and Christian Zaytoun splitting time behind center, with Stone going 9 for 13 for 76 yards and a touchdown to Nate Ingram from 25 yards out. Zaytoun went 5 for 8 for 49 yards. Both quarterbacks also scored rushing touchdowns.
Seven different players caught passes for the Tigers, with Zach Roderick’s 36 yards on three catches leading the way.
Defensively, Egan Valliant had a fumble recovery and Joseph Stephenson and Ryan Grady each had sacks.
The Tigers will host Benedictine next Saturday at 2 p.m. in another solid test for Woodberry.
