Game Preview- The Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook Cranes (2-0) to face the Royal Oak Shrine Knights (1-1)

The Cranes defeated the Royal Oak Shrine Knights 27-26 in 2015

The Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook Cranes (2-0) will face the Royal Oak Shrine Knights (1-1) in their CHSL opening game during Week 3 action This game serves as the first CHSL crossover game for both teams.

Shrine comes in to the game 1-1 on the season, with a 46-15 win over Adrian Madison and a 33-7 loss to Detroit Delta Prep. The Knights are currently in 3rd place in the CHSL- Intersectional II division.

Under Head Coach John Goddard, who is in his 25th year at Shrine, the Knights have amassed a 4-1 lead in the series against Cranbrook. Making the MHSAA playoffs 12 straight years from 2003 to 2014, Shrine has a great football tradition.

“Shrine has had a solid football program for a long time, “says Cranes Head Coach Joe D’Angelo. “We will face a well-prepared team and solid leadership when we take the field against them.”

Shrine went 9-3 last year, including two state playoff wins against Fowler and Clarkston Everest Collegiate.

The Knights are led by junior RB Dan Romano, a 5’11” 195 lbs. downhill runner. Romano rushed for 269 yards and 5 TD’s against Adrian Madison.

“They are certainly a strong running team, with a decent offensive line”, said D’ Angelo “Our defense will be tested.”

Shrine was picked to finish in a 3 way tie for 1st in the CSHL Intersectional II division in the coach’s preseason poll.

Cranbrook comes into this game undefeated, with a 35-0 win against Redford Union, and a 37-0 win over Detroit University Prep.

Under Coach D’Angelo, the Cranes have gone 22-9 the last three seasons, and have become a solid program, winning the Catholic League Championship in 2016.

“Dedicated players make our job as coaches a lot easier,” said D’Angelo. “I will expect our players to handle this week with the same enthusiasm and commitment as they have demonstrated over the past weeks. “

Senior QB Trevor McConnell leads the Cranes with 5 passing TD’s this season. McConnell is 23 for 38 and 352 yards on the season and a QBR of 171.2.

“We are seeing our confidence and performance improving with each game. We look forward to a good match with Shrine this week.”

Cranbrook won the last meeting against Royal Oak Shrine with a dramatic 27-26 win in 2015.