By Mike Flanagan
Hometown Weekly Sports Editor
A storied rivalry was reignited on Friday night. Coming off an impressive 37-24 victory against Framingham to open the 2021 season, Walpole High School varsity football traveled to rival Natick to take on the No. 9 Redhawks.
A pick-six by Andrew Falzone gave Walpole a 7-0 lead midway through the first quarter. With Walpole's offense being held in check by Natick's stout defense, interceptions by Danny Bush and another by Falzone allowed the game to remain 7-0 entering the fourth quarter.
With 6:04 to play, Natick finally got on the board. Quarterback Damon Taylor hit Jayson Little for a long gain down inside the Walpole five-yard-line. Jake Adelmann punched home a two-yard touchdown run two plays later to tie the game at seven. After Cory Kilroy hit Max Collins for a 46-yard gain deep into Natick territory on Walpole's ensuing possession, Little intercepted Kilroy in the end zone on another ball intended for Collins. The interception saved the game for Natick and forced overtime.
Walpole received the ball to begin the extra period, starting at the Natick 10-yard line. Kilroy was again intercepted in the end zone by Little, allowing Natick the opportunity to win with any score. On the third play of Natick's possession, Taylor handed off to Adelmann for a walk-off six-yard touchdown run as Natick prevailed by the 13-7 final.
At 1-1 (1-1 Bay State), Walpole will look to rebound at home against Wellesley on Friday at 5:30 p.m.
For funny and incisive sports analysis as well as video highlights of games, follow Mike Flanagan on his personal Twitter and Instagram handles @flano0.
