Edison, NJ – Edison Pop Warner night was a resounding success, drawing over a hundred young football players and cheerleaders to witness an unforgettable matchup. Facing the formidable #9 ranked Colonia Patriots and playing without their star running back, Edison refused to be intimidated. In a display of remarkable resilience and teamwork, they soared to a 27-21 victory, igniting the crowd and proving that heart can overcome adversity.
The Eagles knew they had a challenge ahead of them, playing without three-year starting running back and All-Star Nykier Eato, who was sidelined with an ankle injury sustained in last week’s game. But Edison proved that depth and determination can overcome adversity.
Edison Pop Warner night belonged to the running backs! Lenier Whetstone and Shaun Garland stepped up, leading the Eagles to a thrilling 27-21 upset over the #9 Colonia Patriots. Whetstone set a career high with a 151 rushing yards, igniting Edison’s ground game. But it was returning All-Division fullback Shawn Garland who delivered the knockout punch, finding the end zone three times as the Eagles racked up an impressive 284 total rushing yards.
Head Coach Matt Yascko said “It was a great job by everyone tonight, so many kids stepped up and made big plays when we needed them. The effort was outstanding.”
After a slow start that saw Colonia jump out to a 14-6 lead, the Eagles found their rhythm, scoring on three of their next four possessions to take control of the game.
Colonia, however, wouldn’t go down without a fight. Jaylen McRae’s 45-yard touchdown reception bringing the Patriots within six points in the final quarter. As Colonia threatened to steal the victory in the waning minutes, Edison cornerback Dedrick Harvey stepped up in a major way. Harvey blanketed Colonia’s top receiver, Nygel Hill, breaking up all five of his targeted passes in the fourth quarter.
With the game on the line and just over a minute remaining, Harvey sealed the victory with his first career interception, snatching a Dylan Chiera pass intended for the end zone.
“I knew I had to make a play,” said Harvey. “My teammates were counting on me, and I wasn’t going to let them down.”
This hard-fought victory marks the second consecutive win for Edison (3-3), giving them their first winning streak of the season. It’s also the team’s first win in four attempts against a Top 10 opponent. The Edison Eagles demonstrated resilience and grit as they look to prepare for next week’s game next week at St.Thomas.
