Football Pat’s win streak snapped by Wakefield as focus shifts to Thanksgiving clash

By Dom Nicastro

Revere’s five-game winning streak came to an abrupt end last Friday night with a 41-6 loss to Wakefield at Harry Della Russo Stadium.

Revere had scored in the 40s in four of the five games in the winning streak; 24 in the other. The Patriots’ offensive machine simply never got going in this non-leaguer against the Middlesex League foe. And not helping matters were four turnovers.

The defeat leaves Revere at 5-5 overall as they prepare for their highly anticipated Thanksgiving Day matchup against Winthrop on the road, Nov. 28, at 10 a.m.

Despite high hopes heading into the game, the Patriots were unable to replicate the form that had defined their impressive winning streak. Coach Lou Cicatelli acknowledged the challenge of facing a strong Middlesex League opponent.

“We did not play well, and obviously it showed,” Cicatelli said. “We ran into a buzzsaw. The Middlesex League, from top to bottom, is one of the best. Wakefield is very, very good.”

The lone bright spot for Revere came in the form of quarterback Danny Hou, who connected with Geovani Woodard on an impressive touchdown pass for the Patriots’ only score.

“Nice pass from Danny. Unbelievable pass,” Cicatelli said. “Danny moved around the pocket, scrambled, and just followed through. It was a great throw.”

The night started with some promise as Revere pieced together a strong opening drive, moving the ball effectively down the field. However, a costly interception ended that drive, setting the tone for what became an uphill battle.

“We got a good drive going on the first possession and got it all the way down, but we threw a pick. From that point on, it just snowballed,” Cicatelli said.

Turnovers proved to be the Achilles’ heel for the Patriots.

“We had four turnovers, and we had none in the last five games,” Cicatelli said. “When you turn the ball over four times, good things just aren’t going to happen.”

Wakefield’s defense proved formidable, shutting down Revere’s typically effective offense and keeping the Patriots on their heels throughout the game.

“That was the best defense I saw all year,” Cicatelli said. “They flew to the ball and took away a lot of the things we did.”

The Patriots’ defense, meanwhile, spent most of the night on the field as Wakefield’s well-balanced attack capitalized on Revere’s mistakes and fatigue.

“Defensively, we weren’t as physical as we usually are, and their offense was good,” Cicatelli said. “We just didn’t play well.”

With the loss behind them, Revere has a week and a half to regroup and prepare for their Thanksgiving showdown against Winthrop. Cicatelli emphasized the importance of taking time to recharge.

“I gave them (Monday) and (Tuesday) off to recharge the batteries. Everyone needs it,” he said. “We need to get ready for Winthrop.”

The Thanksgiving Day matchup is an opportunity for Revere to close out its season on a high note, proving that their recent success wasn’t just a fleeting moment but part of a larger transformation.

Winthrop comes into the matchup at 6-4. The Northeastern Conference-based Vikings are coming off a 42-24 win over KIPP Academy of Lynn. The Vikings have won three out of four games. They fell to Abington, 36-14, in the Division 6 playoffs opening round.