Steelers hold on for another victory

The Sault Steelers just continue to get the job done.

Backed by a powerful defense and an ability to just put enough points on the board to win, the Steelers nipped the Quinte Limestone Panthers 14-11 on Saturday night at Rocky DiPietro Field in Northern Football Conference action.

The victory improves the Steelers record to 4-1 and a share of second place with Oshawa and Oakville. Milton, who will host the Steelers next Saturday afternoon at 3 p.m., are first at 5-0.

Tony Boniferro, in his return to the Steelers after suffering a broken leg in his last appearance, caught a seven yard reception from Travis McLean with 5:34 remaining to give the Steelers a 14-3 lead and enough for the win.

Quinte quarterback Dan Kelly completed a drive with a one yard sneak with 20 seconds remaining to close the gap to three points but the Steelers recovered the ensuing onside kick to seal the win.

McLean opened the scoring early in the first quarter on a one yard keep before Clint Broeders booted a 12 yard field goal for Quinte in the third quarter.

Jeff Maki paced the Steelers rushing attack with 57 yards on 11 carries in place of Toby Traveson, who left the game with an injury after seven carries for 17 yards. James Albidone added 37 yards on four carries.

McLean completed 10 of 16 passes for 139 yards and ran for 21 yards. Tim Higgins caught two passes for 42 yards while Boniferro hauled in three balls for 39 yards, Mike Prentice caught three more for 34 yards and Kyle Lansdell, in his return to the Steelers, made two receptions for 24 yards.

The Steelers defense held the Panthers to 14 rushing yards and 151 yards passing, most of which came late in the game.

Gordie Campbell made six tackles and two sacks while Brandon Lewis recorded 5.5 tackles, a sack, two quarterback hurries, a fumble recovery and a forced fumble. Robert Southwind and Jason Giosa added 5.5 tackles each while Higgins made an interception.

Next home action for the Steelers is Saturday, July 23 at Rocky DiPietro Field against the Sudbury Spartans.