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Sports

Photo Gallery: Big Blue Overwhelms the Magicians

Swampscott whipped rival Marblehead 28-14 on Saturday before a huge raucous crowd and behind a three-touchdown performance by Kelly Birchmore.

Their work ethic, their game plan and their play combined for a memorable afternoon on Field Saturday.

The last two Swampscott flag football players to leave the cleat-pocked field after yesterday’s decisive 28-14 win over Marblehead were, like the rest of the team, overjoyed.

“I’ve never felt like this,” said Ida Kordha. She looked on the verge of tears. Ida's teammate was shaking. 

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The two seniors said the players had gathered the night before and talked about playing as a team — and they knew they were going to win.

Many of them had their hair done in corn rows. So did a few of the senior boys who helped Joe Tenney and Joseph Bennett coach the team.

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Rows of stands were filled with spectators. On both sides of the field.

Fans stood around the field, as well. The afternoon was sunny and almost crisp. Great football weather.

Coach Joe Tenney said players in unsung positions — the offensive line — delivered key performances.

Consistent quality blocking sprung long gains and four running touchdowns, three by Kelly Birchmore and one by Marina Padovani.

He also credited the defense.

Ultimately the team — it looked like the whole senior class suited up for the game — was too upbeat to be taken down, he said.

"They all were positive," he said. "Positive, amazing girls."

The coaches awarded the offensive game ball to Kelly Birchmore, who is use to scoring, but on the soccer field.

Kelly said defensive play by Ronniece White — who received the overall game ball — saved the team numerous times. 

The game was a defensive struggle at the start.

The first quarter ended 0-0 but could very easily have been 7-0 Marblehead after a tall receiver hauled in a pass in the middle of the field.

The end turned to run for six but Ronniece stripped a yellow flag from her side.

"I just love the game of football," Ronniece said, clutching the game ball.

Ronniece, who will study culinary arts in college next year, said she was motivated to help her classmates prevail in this one game they all play together.

"There's only one (Class of) 2012," she said.

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