Lopez leads Frankford by Southern

Frankford's Ezequiel "Esky" Lopez caught a short third-quarter pass, but he appeared to be hemmed in by the sideline and a swarm of Southern defenders.

That is, until the 5-foot-10, 159-pound junior receiver dipped left, cut back right, and disappeared down the field.

Eighty-one yards later, Lopez gave the Pioneers a needed push en route to a 42-16 playoff-clinching victory Thursday at the South Philadelphia Super Site.

"I didn't think they had me hemmed in," Lopez said, grinning. "I already knew what I wanted to do. I wanted to make a cut in the middle, and once I did, I knew I was going to score."

Lopez's touchdown increased the Pioneers' lead to 28-8.

The Public League AAAA Liberty victory also assured the Pioneers (5-4, 5-2) a playoff spot after a disappointing season in 2014.

"We've worked all season and practiced hard every day," Lopez said. "I'm happy. This is my first year playing high school football. I'm just happy."

Lopez played for the Frankford Chargers youth football team as a freshman and sophomore. He decided to give high school football a chance this season at the urging of teammates and coaches.

On Thursday, senior running back Ralph Hyland was also important, finishing with 142 rushing yards and a score.

Junior quarterback Mikey Morell finished 9 of 12 for 183 yards and three scoring tosses.

For Southern (4-5, 3-4), Williamson Sankara blocked two punts and Martell Marshall finished with 74 rushing yards.

Frankford 20 0 8 14 - 42

Southern 6 2 0 8 - 16

S: Ace Walker 1 run (run failed)

F: Jermar Allen 2 run (run failed)

F: Brandon DeJesus 27 pass from Mikey Morell (pass failed)

F: Ralph Hyland 39 run (Hyland run)

S: Safety

F: Ezequiel Lopez 81 pass from Morell (Hyland run)

F: Naim Franklin 5 pass from Morell (run failed)

F: Quasim Butcher 55 fumble return (Larry Scruggs run)

S: Zebby Zlanweah 22 run (Martell Marshall run)