Dolen (3 TDs) Murphy (Pick-6 INT) help Winthrop defeat KIPP Academy, 42-24
By Cary Shuman
Jon Cadigan and the Winthrop High School coaching staff faced the unfortunate happening of losing to injuries at midseason two of their most outstanding two-way players, running back and safety Nick Cappuccio, a pre-season All-State selection, and talented tight end and linebacker Nick Romano, who was well on his way to conference-wide All-Star recognition. In the absence of that duo, the (6-4) Vikings pressed on while the coaching staff made some adjustments in personnel.
The Vikings went out and executed the game plans and the result is the assurance of a winning record for the 2024 season after a 42-24 victory over KIPP Academy of Lynn last Thursday at Miller Field. In the new-look Winthrop offense, quarterback Matt Noonan and running backs Will Murphy, Seth Sacco, and Sean Dolen became the Big Four and their combined firepower was again exhibited against KIPP, one of the best charter school programs in the state that draws its players from Lynn, a proven sports city with more than 100,000 residents. Dolen deservedly earned Boston Herald Star of the Week recognition (the fourth Winthrop player to be so honored) for his 128 yards rushing and three touchdowns versus KIPP. Dolen is averaging a team-best 8.8 yards per carry.
“Sean had an excellent game,” summarized Jon Cadigan. “His running style – I describe it as he runs angry. He runs hard, bounces off people, and refuses to get tackled by one guy. But he’s also patient, he picks up his blocks greats and he certainly did against KIPP.” Murphy made the play of the game when he intercepted a pass and returned it for a touchdown. Murphy was selected the Viking Black Shirt Defensive Player of the Game. The senior captain also had eight carries for 48 yards, two receptions for 42 yards and a touchdown, and a two-point conversion.
“Will is one of biggest offensive guys in terms of touches,” said Cadigan. “Obviously he had the Pick-6 which was big. We got a total game from Will, which is pretty much what we expect.” Sacco contributed “another solid game” with 12 carries for 79 yards and a touchdown. Sacco is the team’s leading rusher this season with 770 yards and a huge day on Thanksgiving would get him to the majestic 1,000-yard milestone. “Seth has become a total football player,” said Cadigan. “He plays very well on the defensive side of the ball. He put in a lot of work in the offseason.” Cadigan credited the blocking of offensive linemen, sophomore Riley Moccio, and senior captains Matt Reardon, Phil Boncore, and Gabe Grein, for an “A-plus” effort in the trenches. “We’re happy with the win,” said Cadigan.
“The goal was to secure a winning season. It’s been a while since we were able to put together three consecutive winning seasons, so that’s a pretty big deal.” The Vikings have turned their focus to the annual Thanksgiving game against Revere at Miller Field. Interestingly, the visiting Patriots (5-5) will have additional incentive as they seek to achieve a winning record for the season.