by Jonny Levenfeld

Going into Friday night’s matchup with division rival Needham, football was coming off two close defensive battles against Waltham and Wellesley that resulted in a win and a loss.

Friday’s game proved to be anything but a defensive battle, as the Rockets put on an offensive show in a 41-12 demolition of the Tigers.

Despite the defensive letdown against Needham, senior Jack Boucher, a captain with seniors Kyle Rich and Jermel Wright, does not think defense is the team’s issue. “Our defense has been the core of our team,” he said.

According to Boucher, defensive reliability has been important given the team’s offensive struggles. “Our biggest challenge has been trying to move the ball effectively on offense. We haven’t been able to finish drives, he said.  In addition to offensive difficulties, Boucher cited more talented opponents and a few tough practices as contributing factors to the team’s recent struggles.

Boucher said that senior Rashaad Penn has stood out on offense at running back while Rich and Wright have been solid on the line on defense. Boucher also praised the play of junior Andrew Denucci, calling him “fearless” at linebacker.

Going forward, Boucher hopes the team can put their recent struggles behind them, finish in the top two of the Carey division, and make a postseason run.

The Tigers are next in action Saturday, Oct. 5 when they take on a 2-1 Braintree squad at home.