John Johnson scores two touchdowns to spark Plainedge to victory
Plainedge's John Johnson runs in for a touchdown after making a reception from quarterback Nick Frenger during the first half of a Nassau III football game against Division. (Sept. 22, 2012) Credit: Kevin P. Coughlin
Plainedge's John Johnson was Johnny-on-the-spot.
With leading receiver John Logan unable to play this week because of an injury, Johnson became the first option. He responded with a strong week at practice, was named game captain and had one of the best performances of his career.
The senior receiver scored the first two touchdowns for Plainedge en route to a 36-7 win over Division Saturday in Nassau III. He finished with four catches for 90 yards, his first multi-TD game and an interception.
"He finally got to shine a little bit, playing in that big role," Plainedge coach Rob Shaver said. "He ran great routes today, blocked well down field and defensively played very well also."
Johnson caught an 11-yard touchdown pass from Nick Frenger, who completed 9 of 13 passes for 201 yards, on a corner route with eight minutes remaining in the first quarter. In the opening minute of the second quarter, the two connected on a post pattern and Johnson took it 34 yards for the touchdown.
Special teams also stepped up for Plainedge (3-0). On a punt return, Nick Cupolo hurdled a defender, made a spin move and broke free on the outside for a 75-yard touchdown with 3:40 left in the half.
Gianfranco Soriente, who rushed for 141 yards on 11 carries, including a 42-yard touchdown run, opened the second half with a 95-yard kickoff return to make it 36-0.
"Special teams got two touchdowns, that's usually a good way to win," Shaver said. "They kind of broke the game wide open."
Joe Bouse had a sack and fumble recovery for Plainedge. Division (1-2) didn't get on the board until Dean Halbohn connected with Justin Wiertz for a 50-yard touchdown with 2:50 left in the game. For the second straight week the only points allowed by the Plainedge defense was a garbage time touchdown.
But the most memorable contributions came from the captain and top wideout, Johnson.
"Last year he was stuck behind a couple of great receivers and he's finally getting a chance," Shaver said.
"He has really improved a lot."
Johnny be good.
