Watertown High football opens season with shutout victory

The Watertown Raiders marched past the Pentucket Panthers for a resounding 21-0 victory in the season opener Friday at Victory Field. Billy McHugh scored twice and Payton Andrade bullied the Panthers’ defense and added another score.

Coach John Cacace was fairly impressed with his side’s performance.

“Our defense played outstanding, and we got to clean up some of the mistakes . . . Overall a nice start to the season,” he said afterward.

The Raiders, who play again at home against Hamilton-Wenham on Friday, Sept. 16, got on the scoreboard in the second quarter.

McHugh was able to charge up the crowd, scoring in the second and fourth quarters Throughout the game, McHugh was consistent and essential, stamping the Raiders’ win. When asked about his performance he simply stated, “I’m feeling good, two touchdowns, starting the season off right, I’m looking to keep it rolling.”

Andrade also impressed with his excellent rushing, scoring a touchdown in the third quarter, bringing the crowd to their feet. He was also a reliable member on the other side of the ball, bringing stops on the defensive end, which drew praise from the coach.

“I thought Payton played terrific on the defense,” the coach said. “He’s strong and quick. I thought he played a great game overall.”

There were many highlights, including some from senior receiver Vinnie Wolff and senior lineman Elias Ortiz, who brought all the energy not only for his team but for the crowd as well.

The crowd was energetic throughout the entire game, with the band putting on a great show, and the Raiders community coming to represent and bring the energy for the white-out theme. Watertown student, Desiree Ambila, expressed her thoughts on the passion, energy, and performance of the game, and put them into minimal words “Exciting and crisp!”

–Sept. 11, 2022–