By RYAN ARENA

Sports Editor

When McDonogh #35 scored on the opening possession of its scrimmage Thursday night at East St. John, it wasn’t exactly the start Coach Larry Dauterive was looking for from his new look defense.

The finish, however, was more to his liking.

The Wildcats allowed no more points to the Roneagles, holding them to under 100 yards of total offense the end of the way.

The first team offense did its part as well, scoring four times as East St. John appeared more than ready for its upcoming jamboree date against West St. John. 

“Obviously, you never are completely satisfied,” said Dauterive. “But it was a tremendous effort against a quality opponent. We were able to hold them at bay.”

The Wildcats dominated time of possession in the scrimmage, forcing a number of three-and-outs and running behind its massive offensive line to chew up clock on offense.

The first team scored three rushing touchdowns – running backs Alex Singleton and Todd Muse each ran for a score, as did quarterback Kalen Henderson. Andre Millet also threw a touchdown while spelling Henderson, a 70-yard touchdown to Reynaldo Young.

The scrimmage provided a fine example of the changes team’s offensive identity has undergone over the last two years. Once a high octane passing attack, ESJ now suffocates defenses via the running game – on Thursday, out of 94 plays, the Wildcats attempted only seven passes.

“We played to our strength. And running the ball is clearly our strength. Alex, Todd, and DeChris Strong all ran extremely well.”