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By Marty Stewart

Published: Wednesday, September 19, 2012, 8:55 p.m.
Updated: Wednesday, September 19, 2012

Friday night marked the dedication of Shady Side Academy's Michael J. Farrell Stadium and despite some harrowing moments, the Indians made the evening even more special as they beat Valley, 16-6.

With star junior running backs Jared Brevard and Dennis Briggs out with ankle injuries, the Indians needed someone to step up.

And senior quarterback Matt Granato filled the bill.

He scored both of SSA's touchdowns on 12- and 20-yard runs and ended up with 103 yards on the ground.

His touchdown run in the third quarter broke a 6-6 deadlock.

Mike Pohl booted a 31-yard field goal in the fourth quarter to give the Indians some breathing room over a stubborn Valley team.

“We needed him to step up for us and he showed why he's such a valuable part of this team,” SSA coach Dave Havern said.

“He played a great game. Without Jared and Dennis, we needed Matt to complete some passes and he had some nice throws.

“A couple of his passes just missed being TDs.”

Havern will need Brevard and Briggs healthy next week as they travel to Burrell in a battle of unbeatens.

The Bucs held on to defeat Summit Academy 28-22 last week behind the running of Cole Bush and the passing of James Liput.

Bush rushed for 149 yards and a pair of scores, while Liput completed eight passes for 106 yards and a touchdown.

He also ran for a score.

“This will be our biggest challenge of the season,” Havern said. “Burrell is always a tough team and there will be a lot at stake here.

“I'm sure they'll have all their fans out in full force. We'll have to play a complete game.

“Our defense will have their work cut out for them. Cole Bush is a quality back and their quarterback has been very efficient.”

Marty Stewart is a sports editor for Trib Total Media. He can be reached at 412-782-2123 or mstewart@tribweb.com.

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