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Maroun scores three TDs, Salem outlasts Spaulding

ROCHESTER — Spaulding scored with just 1:10 left to make it a one-possession game, but Salem's Sean Nartiff recovered the on-side kick and the Blue Devils ran out the clock for a 27-20 victory Saturday.

"It got a little tight but we came away with a good win," said Blue Devils head coach Rob Pike of the game, which had been postponed a day due to rain. "They made some big plays to stay in the game, but our guys held on and it was good to get out with a win."

It was a big day for Devils senior Doug Maroun. The running back scored the first two touchdowns of the day — on runs of 3 and 2 yards — and added what proved to be the winning score on the fourth on a 1-yard plunge.

"Doug ran really hard for us today," said Pike. "He definitally stepped up and had a big day. Charles (Sibanda) is always so good and Solomon Ortiz, who is probably our No. 4 fullback, really gave us some big runs."

Sibanda continued to surge with 185 yards and a touchdown. But it was Ortiz that was the surprise contributor.

Filling in for Johnny Bartose, who suffered a broken leg against Timberlane, Ortiz carried six times for 68 yards. The junior was not listed on the preseason preview.

Bryce Haynes led the defense with an interception, while Maroun, Nartiff and Ben Genest also stood out on defense.

Salem next hosts Merrimack in a battle of 4-2 Division 1 South squads.

"Next week is a big one for the playoff standings," said Pike. "We are going to have to have a very good performance next week."