FLAG FOOTBALL: No. 19 Steinbrenner holds off Newsome in defensive showdown

(Updated to correct name of player)

LUTZ, Fla. — A balanced passing attack and a timely defensive performance lifted No. 19 Steinbrenner past Newsome, 13-7, on Tuesday.

The Warriors used a two-quarterback system to keep the Wolves’ defense guessing. Megan Medina completed 9-of-13 attempts for 91 yards and a touchdown, while Sydney Roder connected on 9-of-15 for 85 yards and a score.

Cecilia Leon was Steinbrenner’s most active receiver, hauling in six catches for 61 yards. Leah Myers added four receptions for 26 yards and a touchdown, and Jenna Golubeff hauled in one catch for 20 yards and a score. Kathryn Williams chipped in three receptions for 35 yards, Ariana Castro contributed one catch for 17 yards, and Sienna Neylan added one grab for 10 yards.

On the ground, Medina carried six times for 33 yards, and Golubeff added two carries for 17 yards.

Defensively, Leon was a standout for Steinbrenner, recording two interceptions for five return yards and a pass deflection. Golubeff added a pass deflection of her own. Myers was also effective in the punting game, averaging 36 yards on two attempts with a long of 41.

For Newsome, senior quarterback Sadie Avery completed 14-of-21 attempts for 143 yards and a touchdown, keeping the Wolves competitive throughout. Mia Dolan was Newsome’s top target with four receptions for 53 yards and a touchdown, while senior Emma Cleary hauled in five catches for 42 yards. Jayden Elbanna added four receptions for 32 yards and Kensley Hiscock contributed one grab for nine yards.

Avery provided a bright spot defensively as well, recording an interception that she returned seven yards. Dolan led the secondary with two pass deflections. Avery Sanchez applied consistent pressure on the Steinbrenner quarterbacks, recording three QB hurries, while Hailey Winacott and Avery each added one.