November 13, 2020

Legendary programs set for 4A showdown

By Mon Valley Independent

By ASHLEY CHASE

MVI Sports

It’s been four decades since the first meeting between Thomas Jefferson and Aliquippa, a memorable win for the Jaguars in the WPIAL championship game.

The second meeting will be for the WPIAL title as well, in a season that is certainly memorable, even if it’s for reasons most would like to forget.

The No. 1 Quips and second-seed Jaguars square off at North Allegheny, lacking the environment luster of Heinz Field, but not dampening the pride of being the last team standing and hosting a trophy.

The road to the final kept both teams on home turf until now, taking Thomas Jefferson through Mars, 41-6, and over No. 3 Plum, 20-17. Aliquippa shut out Hampton, 31-0, before taking a 33-25 victory over Belle Vernon in the semifinals.

A common denominator in the seasons of Thomas Jefferson (7-1) and Aliquippa (9-0) is a win over Belle Vernon, both coming in hard-fought fashion against a skilled Leopards squad. The Jaguars took BVA down earlier in the season 42-21 after being tied at the half.

That mutual opponent and the path to victory for the Quips last week made for a valuable resource and measuring stick for Jaguars head coach Bill Cherpak as Thomas Jefferson prepared for the title game this week, amidst the rising tide of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Belle Vernon is so talented and Aliquippa matched them pretty well so it’s definitely going to be a challenge,” Cherpak said.

During the “100 or so times” Cherpak poured over film from Aliquippa’s semifinal win over Belle Vernon, he came to the same conclusion as Leopards coach Matt Humbert did following the contest – Aliquippa’s passing game presents a challenge that flies a bit under the radar.

“He’s small, but he’s talented,” Cherpak said of Aliquippa quarterback Vaughn Morris, listed at 5-7 and 155 pounds on the Quips’ roster.

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