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Knights could earn share of title

Masconomet Regional might be the only team playing for a postseason berth, but don't underestimate the power of a banner.

North Andover, like Masco, stands at 3-1 in the Cape Ann Large, and a win tomorrow would earn the Scarlet Knights a share of the title with Wilmington. But only Masco, which beat Wilmington, can go on to the EMass Division 2A playoffs.

"For this group to come from where they started (North Andover lost its first two games) to within a win on Thanksgiving Day to share a piece of the league crown is tremendous," said North Andover coach John Rafferty.

"It's a group that came in with very little experience, kind of in the shadows of the players before them. It's taken time, but this group has really achieved."

Sophomore Zac Iovanella has risen to stardom, rolling up 1,168 yards on 178 carries. Bruising Matt Burckhardt (714 yards) is the perfect complement.

The Chieftains average 28.8 points a game, led by fullback T.C. Mannetta, a 1,000-yard rusher with 10 TDs. Sophomore QB Chris Splinter has scored 12 TDs and thrown a dozen TD passes.

"They are big and physical and can run it right at you," said Rafferty. "They can throw the football down the field, and then when you take care of the pass, they've got a quarterback who can take it and run anytime. It's a three-headed monster."

North Andover's defense has been a bit Jekyll-and-Hyde-like lately, shackling Wilmington, even in a loss, but allowing 27 points in a win over Lawrence.

Rafferty is counting on a big effort from linebacker Ricky Williams, a junior who is coming into his own.

"The great thing about our team this year, is how nobody really stands out," said Rafferty. "These kids are a team. They rise and fall together."

North Andover leads the all-time series, 29-9-1. The Thanksgiving series began in 1975, and the Scarlet Knights have won 24 of the 32 meetings since then. Masco has won seven times, and the lone tie of the series happened in a 22-22 stalemate in 1980.

Did You Know? In just one season, North Andover sophomore Zac Iovanella is closing fast on the career rushing numbers of his older brother and former Knight standout, Josh (Class of 2006). Josh, in three years, totalled 1,676 yards rushing. Zac has 1,165.