Ghosts Defeat Waltham, 29–12

WALTHAM — Westford Academy put together a complete team effort Friday night, earning a 29–12 victory over Waltham in Dual County League action. Behind an efficient performance from quarterback Jack LaFond and a dominant defensive front, the Ghosts controlled the game from start to finish.

Fast Start for the Ghosts

The Ghosts wasted no time getting on the board. On the opening drive, LaFond powered in from six yards out on a quarterback sneak to make it 6–0. He then connected with Brett Moran on the two-point conversion to extend the lead to 8–0.

In the second quarter, LaFond continued to lead the charge, finding Dante Vasiliu on a four-yard touchdown pass. Tyler “TJ” Kane added the extra point to make it 15–0.

Moments later, the Ghosts’ defense created another scoring opportunity. JJ Wilson broke through the line for a strip sack, forcing a turnover deep in Waltham territory. Westford quickly capitalized, as Brett Moran took a reverse 11 yards into the end zone. Kane’s PAT pushed the lead to 22–0.

Waltham managed to score just before halftime on an 18-yard pass from their quarterback (#8) to receiver #4, cutting the deficit to 22–6 at the break.

Defense Dominates the Line

Westford’s defensive front—JJ Welsh, JJ Wilson, Leo Koutsoukos, Alex Luhrs, and Malcolm McDonald—set the tone all night, controlling the trenches and limiting Waltham’s ground game. The unit consistently pressured the quarterback and clogged running lanes, forcing the Hawks into uncomfortable passing situations.

Late in the fourth quarter, sophomore safety Ryan Goucher sealed the win with a clutch interception, his first of the season.

Ground Game Seals It

In the fourth quarter, Ben Chen broke free on a 22-yard touchdown run to put the game out of reach. Kane’s extra point made it 29–6 before Waltham added a late score on a 21-yard touchdown pass.

Stat Leaders

• QB Jack LaFond: 11-for-18, 139 yards, 1 TD pass, 1 rushing TD

• RB Ben Chen: 127 rushing yards, 1 TD

• RB Brett Moran: 51 rushing yards, 1 TD; 3 receptions for 29 yards

• WR Dante Vasiliu: 6 receptions, 72 yards, 1 TD

• WR JJ Welsh: 1 reception, 37 yards

Up Next

The Ghosts improve to 3–2 on the season and continue league play next Friday when they travel to face a tough Bedford team. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. as Westford looks to keep building momentum in the DCL title race.