NEW MIDDLETOWN Malactaris, Campbell start off on right foot

His 18-yard field goal provided all the scoring the Red Devils would need.
By JOHN BUTERA
VINDICATOR CORRESPONDENT
NEW MIDDLETOWN -- On a night when defense ruled, Friday's game came down to a kicker getting a second chance.
After missing a 30-yard attempt earlier in the game, Campbell senior George Malactaris nailed an 18-yard field goal with 1:33 remaining in the fourth quarter to give the visiting Red Devils a 3-0 win over Springfield.
"I was very glad," Malactaris said of his second attempt. "I just wasn't ready on the first one. I not only felt excited but I was relieved too.
"As the coach said, this win really gets us off on the right foot."
Missed chances
Time and again Springfield had a chance to score as they enjoyed a huge advantage in time of possession.
In the first quarter, the Tigers held the ball for 8:34 and actually had a first and goal from the one. But they were hurt by penalties and eventually missed a 21-yard field goal.
Campbell in fact gave the Tigers numerous chances in the first half -- turning the ball over twice, slipping during a punt return and letting a penalty wipe out a 26-yard run.
Mason McCambridge had a fumble recovery for Springfield while Melio Rios intercepted a pass. Rios was a two-way workhorse all night for Springfield, totaling 72 yards on 16 carries.
The Tigers controlled the third quarter, holding a 21-3 advantage in plays while running over 10 minutes off the clock. But Tee Hymes thwarted the Tigers' effort with a 31-yard interception return.
"We moved the ball, but just couldn't get it finished," Springfield coach John Smith said. "I think a little of the problem may have because it was the first game but I don't know.
"We just had poor execution at the wrong times."
Springfield later wasted another chance after getting a first and 10 at the Campbell 15.
"Yes, Our defense was on the field a long time," said Red Devils coach John Ryan. "But remember they also went both ways. Those kids were fighting for everything.
"This gets the kids moving in the right direction."