By RYAN ARENA

L’Observateur

BRUSLY — St. James coach Rick Gaille called it a slugfest between two teams desperate to come away with a win in their district opener. Fortunately for Gaille, his Wildcats landed the biggest blow.

Shaquille Narcisse scored on a 1-yard keeper in overtime and the St. James defense held Brusly for four downs to clinch a 28-21 District 8-3A victory.

“It wasn’t always pretty, but in the end we were able to push it across for the win,” said Gaille. “When you consider the time these guys put in, players need to see results eventually. This was something we very, very, very badly needed and hopefully we build upon it.”

The win was St. James’ first on the season. The Wildcats (1-5, 1-0) began last season winless before going on a run to clinch a share of the district crown.

It was the first start at quarterback for Narcisse, who accounted for himself well. He threw two touchdowns passes in addition to his overtime scoring run and finished with 194 passing yards.

“He’s a very good athlete and he’s very accurate,” said Gaille. “He’s had trouble focusing at times, but he gave us a shot in the arm.”

Kenneth Armant scored the first touchdown for St. James on a 15-yard run in the first quarter.

Narcisse’s touchdown passes were both long plays, one to Junius Champagne and another to Alonzo Lewis.

Armant led St. James rushers with 12 carries for 80 yards. Lewis led all receivers with five catches for 137 yards.

Rachard Lumar also snagged a safety for the Wildcats.

Gaille credited his defense’s ability to adjust to Brusly’s offense and also his offensive line, which he says has come a long way.

“The improvement was dramatic this week,” said Gaille. “Very few mental errors.”

Brusly drops to 2-4, 0-1 in district.