CITIZEN STAFF REPORT
NAUGATUCK, W.Va. — Junior All-Stater Bryson Elia showcased a phenomenal all-around performance Saturday night earning him the Tommy’s Auto Sales Player of the Week award.
Elia and the Tug Valley Panthers defeated the Petersburg Vikings 49-20 in the Class A playoff quarterfinals at Bob Brewer Stadium. His ability to dominate on offense, defense and special teams made him an easy choice.
Elia, a standout for the undefeated Panthers (12-0), was unstoppable on both sides of the football. The junior racked up 247 rushing yards and scored an impressive four touchdowns, including a 64-yard breakaway run in the fourth quarter that sealed the game.
His impact was not limited to the offensive side of the ball. Elia also came away with two crucial interceptions on defense and contributed four tackles.
“Bryson played well tonight. He ran the ball great, found the holes on offense, and on defense he was able to read the quarterback and make some big plays,” Tug Valley coach Hady Ford said after the game.
Elia’s first touchdown came on a 2-yard rush in the second quarter, sparking a Tug Valley scoring surge that saw the Panthers take a commanding 21-7 lead by halftime. He added two more touchdowns in the second half, including a second 2-yard run and his electrifying 64-yard sprint to the end zone.
Elia’s defensive presence was equally critical. His first interception in the second quarter set up a pivotal touchdown pass from quarterback Preston May to Adam Slone. His second pick came in the third quarter, halting a Petersburg drive and allowing the Panthers to extend their lead.
“Bryson’s performance tonight was the kind of effort you need to win in the playoffs,” added Coach Ford. “He’s a special player.”
The Panthers advance to the Class A semifinals, where they will host No. 4 Cameron (11-1) at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 6, at Bob Brewer Stadium. With a spot in the state championship game on the line, Tug Valley will look for another standout performance from their star junior.
Congratulations to Elia.
(Kyle Lovern contributed to this report.)