Andover, Ohio — The Pymatuning Valley Lakers closed their regular season with a statement victory, overpowering
the Grand Valley Mustangs 38-0 in a rivalry matchup that showcased the Lakers’ muscle, depth, and home-grown talent. In front of a spirited Andover crowd, PV controlled every phase of the game, proving why their roster—built largely from home-grown players who have played together for years—continues to be one of the most disciplined and physical units in the region.
The Lakers wasted no time showing that physicality. Donald Obhoff’s 42-yard opening kickoff return immediately put the Mustangs on their heels, setting a tone the visitors could never overcome. Only three plays later, running back Kasen Bailey burst through the defense for a 25-yard touchdown, flashing the blend of speed and strength that has anchored the Lakers’ ground attack all season.
First Half: Lakers’ Muscle on Full Display
Quarterback Justin Britton, one of several added to the momentum with an 11-yard rushing touchdown—lowering his shoulder at the goal line as the Lakers again flexed their offensive muscle. Later in the half, Britton connected deep with
Jayce Fulkman for a touchdown strike, while Bailey punched in another short scoring run to extend the lead.
By halftime, Pymatuning Valley held a commanding 35-0 advantage. The Lakers’ linemen, both offensively and defensively, controlled the line of scrimmage throughout, overpowering Grand Valley and opening lanes for their playmakers. Their physical dominance became a defining storyline of the night.
Defensive Stand: Lakers Shut the Door
If the offense set the tone, the Lakers’ defense delivered the exclamation point. Grand Valley struggled to generate anything against the relentless pressure of PV’s front seven. The Mustangs failed to establish any rhythm, as PV’s linebackers and defensive line repeatedly blew up plays before they could develop.
Even with a running clock in the second half, the Lakers maintained their intensity, bottling up Grand Valley’s ground game and limiting their passing attempts. It was a performance that illustrated not just talent, but the discipline and toughness the Lakers have cultivated within their home-grown core.
Finishing Touches
The final points of the game came early in the third quarter when Paddy Ferrie drilled a 24-yard field goal to cap the scoring at 38-0. From there, the Lakers used their depth to close out the game, securing the shutout in decisive fashion.
Playoff Positioning for PV
With the win, Pymatuning Valley improved to 7-3 overall and 5-1 in NAC play, clinching a spot in the Division V, Region 17 playoffs. It marked the first time in the past 7 seasons where PV did not win at least a share of the NAC title as Fairport took the NAC with an undefeated regular season.
The victory not only reinforced their postseason credentials but also showcased the kind of physical, disciplined football that could make the Lakers a dangerous opponent moving forward.
Grand Valley, finishing the season at 5-5, saw some promising individual efforts but struggled to match the Lakers’ power, execution and overall muscle.
PV’s Standout Performances
- Justin Britton (QB) — Efficient, poised, and physical as both a passer and runner.
- Kasen Bailey (RB) — Energized the offense with explosive plays and hard-hitting on defense.
- Lakers’ Defensive Front — The true backbone of the shutout, consistently demonstrating the Lakers’ muscle defensively.
Final Score:
Pymatuning Valley Lakers 38
Grand Valley Mustangs 0