The Knights celebrate homecoming night against a Suburban League National rival riding a perfect start
Nordonia welcomes Hudson to Macedonia tonight in a Suburban League National Conference matchup with early playoff implications. Kickoff at Boliantz Stadium is set for 7 p.m., and the Knights will celebrate homecoming in front of what should be a packed house.
The Knights enter at 3-1 overall after a 23-21 loss at Highland last week snapped their unbeaten start. That defeat came on the road, where Nordonia’s defense held Highland scoreless in the second half but could not complete a full comeback. Before the loss, the Knights had opened the season with three straight wins, including a 41-39 shootout over Villa Angela-St. Joseph and lopsided victories over St. Vincent-St. Mary and East.
Hudson arrives unbeaten at 4-0 and has outscored opponents by wide margins all season. The Explorers opened with a 24-19 win over Austintown Fitch, then put up 55 points against Jackson and 54 against St. Vincent-St. Mary. Last week, Hudson blanked North Royalton 42-7 in a matchup billed as the Cleveland Browns High School Game of the Week.
Nordonia looks for answers after a tough road test
Quarterback Steven Fakult has been one of the more productive passers in Greater Akron this fall. He threw for 284 yards and four touchdowns against Villa Angela-St. Joseph and gives the Knights a downfield threat with a deep group of receivers that includes Dominick Jackson, Karsen Fisher, Collin Atha, Brock Barwidi and Jamiere Davis. Running back CJ Mayes anchors the ground game and also plays a key role on defense at linebacker.
Scott Barwidi, in his debut season as head coach after nearly two decades as an assistant, has the Knights at 3-1 through four weeks. Getting the offense untracked early and avoiding the slow start that hurt Nordonia at Highland will matter against a Hudson defense that has allowed just 74 points total this season.
Hudson brings balance and a breakaway threat
Hudson’s attack runs through senior running back Reno Ferri, who broke off an 80 yard touchdown run on the second play from scrimmage in last week’s win over North Royalton. Senior quarterback Hayden Lipinski, a dual threat under center, has spread the ball around efficiently, connecting with receivers Keswick Ritley and Anthony Paolucci for touchdowns in recent weeks. The offensive line is led by Ohio University recruit Otto Grill.
Head coach Jeff Gough’s team has now won its first four games by an average margin well over 20 points, and Hudson’s defense has forced multiple turnovers in nearly every contest this season.
What is at stake tonight
Beyond homecoming, tonight’s game carries early weight in the Suburban League National Conference race. A Nordonia win would even the Knights’ conference record and reset momentum heading into the back half of the schedule. A Hudson win would keep the Explorers unbeaten and add another quality result to their resume.
Fans attending homecoming can expect the usual pregame festivities at Boliantz Stadium ahead of the 7 p.m. kickoff.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does Nordonia play Hudson tonight?
Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. at Boliantz Stadium in Macedonia.
What are Nordonia and Hudson’s records this season?
Nordonia enters at 3-1 after a 23-21 loss at Highland last week. Hudson is unbeaten at 4-0.
Is tonight a homecoming game for Nordonia?
Yes, tonight’s game against Hudson is Nordonia’s homecoming.
Who are the key players to watch in tonight’s game?
Nordonia quarterback Steven Fakult and running back CJ Mayes lead the Knights, while Hudson running back Reno Ferri and quarterback Hayden Lipinski headline the Explorers.
What conference do Nordonia and Hudson play in?
Both teams compete in the Suburban League National Conference.
