Staples defeated Xavier HS 21-12 Sunday, controlling possession for much of the game.

Staples ability to maintain possession was excellent, and the Connecticut team ran 14 phases from the kickoff before scoring a try in the corner. For Xavier, this was not the case. Possession has been a rare thing for Xavier and when they do get the ball, said Head Coach Greg Norris, "we panic and try to make it happen without being patient.  We made a few errors and didn't protect the ball that we did have. At this level if you can string eight phases together with a little go-forward, a crack will open. We couldn't manage to hold onto the ball."

Locks Owen Clarke and George Engels led the forward effort for Staples and ensured they kept the continuity going. Both were huge in set piece as well. Flyhalf Ben LaFontan controlled the backline nicely and his decision-making served to put pressure on Xavier's defense and deep three. 

The Staples defense was very good, and made it tough for Xavier to get much traction. Still, it was a close game until late.

"Staples had a great game when the ball bounced for them, and they were all over any scraps that came their way," added Norris.

With No. 8 Brandon Saunders and wing Eoin Cuddy also playing well, Staples made another good statement Sunday.