New Light In Wellington As Dukes Get First Win Since 2016

Wellington – The Wellington Dukes (1-2) posted their first victory since October 21, 2016, defeating New London(0-3) 34-22 in their home opener. It ends a 13-game losing skid. They did it under new a new coaching staff led by Brad Howells, new LED lighting and sound system installed less than 24-hours before kickoff.

The night was prime for change.

The Dukes offense spotted an early 21-8 lead going into halftime – including a touchdown as time expired, but the defense stole the spotlight and pitched a shutout in the 4th Quarter to preserve the victory.

Jayden Skinner’s interception with 8:12 to go ended a Wildcat drive into Wellington territory – effectively shutting down any comeback.

On their next possession, New London recovered their own fumble but put themselves deep into their own territory. They would bounce back, but it ate up over three minutes off the clock. They would end up turning over on downs with 4:28 to play, giving the Dukes the ball at their own 45-yard line.

Runningback Mason McClellan racked up 125 yards rushing on 21 carries with a touchdown for Wellington. Quarterback Ben Higgins was 8-of-19 for 168 yards passing with touchdown passes to receivers Nick Laposky (13 yards) on the opening drive and Skinner (31 yards) in the third quarter. Skinner finished with six catches and 146 yards receiving.

The Dukes longest touchdown came on a trick play for their first TD of the second half – a Higgins backwards pass to Skinner who tossed a 49-yard catch-and-run to Parker Adler.

Next Up – Wellington travels to Lorain next Friday, 9/14 for a showdown at Clearview (2-1). The Clippers are coming off back-to-back wins over Painesville Harvey (45-6) and John Hay (12-8).