'Moral victory' for Lakers despite loss to Loyola, 28-18

Even though Waterford Our Lady of the Lakes fell to Detroit Loyola on Friday, Oct. 5, it can take solace in the fact that it gave the Bulldogs the first real test they had all season.

The Lakers lost, 28-18, to Loyola at University of Detroit Jesuit Field, but they did manage to score more points than any opponent has against the Bulldogs all season while also holding them to their lowest point total of the season.

“We made four mistakes in the first half and we came out in the second half and played well, so this was a moral victory,” Lakers Head Coach Mike Boyd said. “Loyola left the field after the game feeling like they lost the ballgame. That was the first game in which they haven’t mercied anyone.”

The Bulldogs (7-0, 5-0 in the Catholic League Intersectional) came into Friday’s game averaging 50 points a game, while surrendering only an average of 6 points a game, including three shutouts.

Richie Cross finished with seven carries for 15 yards, including two 1-yard rushing touchdowns, and three receptions for 57 yards for Our Lady (5-2, 3-2 in the Catholic League Intersectional)

Lucas Neme also had two rushes for a total of 47 yards, while Spencer Howell kicked two field goals from 25 yards and 37 yards out.

Quarterback Sal Mastromatteo completed 7-of-17 passes for 111 yards, and Blake Beauchamp had an interception and fumble recovery on defense.

Nate Kotz and Noah Burnham also each had a fumble recovery for Our Lady.

Keymonne Gabriel ran for 192 yards and three touchdowns for Loyola, which remains in first-place in the Catholic League Intersectional Division with one division game remaining.

The Lakers now look to reach six wins on the season and clinch a state playoff berth when they host Madison Heights Bishop Foley on Saturday, Oct. 13.