Wilbur Cross football leans on defense and Barnett-McClease to grind out win over Westhill

On Friday, September 18th, Wilbur Cross High School's football team secured a hard-fought 19-14 victory over visiting Westhill. The game took place at the Wilbur Cross Athletic Complex in New Haven. Wilbur Cross sophomore running back Chase Barnett-McClease was the standout performer, scoring two touchdowns and leading his team to an improvement to 1-1 on the season. Coach Alberto Cordero praised Barnett-McClease's hard work and expectations an All-State candidate again this season.

After a scoreless opening quarter, Barnett-McClease opened the scoring with a 20-yard touchdown run. Zachary Kornfeld answered for Westhill by returning the ensuing kickoff 72 yards for a touchdown, making the score 7-7. Wilbur Cross responded with a lengthy drive, capped by Barnett-McClease's 5-yard touchdown run, giving the Governors a 13-7 lead.

In the third quarter, both teams traded touchdowns, with Joel Oliveras and Kornfeld each scoring on 3-yard runs. With two minutes remaining in the fourth quarter, Westhill took advantage of a fumble by Barnett-McClease, but Wilbur Cross defensive back Bryce Jones intercepted a deep pass from Kornfeld intended for Jervanee Mason Edouard, sealing the win.

Cordero highlighted the team's increased discipline compared to previous seasons, attributing it to the collective efforts of the coaching staff and players to establish structure and organization both on and off the field. Wilbur Cross will face East Haven next Friday at 6 p.m., while Westhill hosts Wilton next Saturday at 4 p.m.