Torok, Powers pace Hornets’ rout

In thoroughly dominant fashion, senior running back Joey Torok and the Kirtland Hornets began their quest for the school’s fourth state title.

In a Division VI regional quarterfinal Nov. 2, Torok and the Hornets overwhelmed Steubenville Catholic Central, 59-0.

The game was played at West Geauga High School’s Howell Field because of soggy conditions on the Hornets’ home field.

On any surface, the Fighting Crusaders would have been no match for the Kirtland juggernaut. The Hornets upped its record to 11-0 in a mismatch that essentially was settled midway through the first quarter.

“You never take anyone lightly. We came ready to play,” Torok said.

With the Hornets having built a 49-0 lead at halftime. the entire second half was played with a running clock.

Steubenville Catholic Central bowed out at 7-4.

“The guys did a nice job tonight,” Kirtland coach Tiger LaVerde said. “We knew if we played well early we could get away from them.”

Kirtland took control forged a 35-0 lead on a fiveyard run with a fumble recovery by junior defensive back Dominic Capretta, and TD runs of 31 and 25 yards by senior quarterback Tommy Powers.

The onslaught continued nine seconds deep into the second quarter when Torok gathered in a lateral from Powers and embarked on a 43-yard TD run.

Late in the second quarter, Powers and Torok connected on a TD pass play covering 34 yards.

Torok’s tour de force in the first half beyond that TD catch had him gaining 154 yards on seven carries for an otherworldly average of 22 yards per rush. In 11 games this season, Torok has rushed for 1,377 yards on 89 carries.

Powers gave a sterling effort, too, with three rushing touchdowns and 5-of-6 passing for 123 yards.

Playing with reserves in the second half, Kirtland added a touchdown and a 37-yard field goal by sophomore Mario Rodin.

The Hornets will face Creston Norwayne (10-1) in a Region 21 semifinal Nov. 9 at a site to be determined.