Valley View’s Lou Mariani put together one of the most dominant efforts in Dream Game history in the summer of 1974 to lead the County to a 48-15 rout of the City at Scranton Memorial Stadium.
Playing in the 40th game in the history of the series of all-star games for graduating high school football players, Mariani led the County to several scoring records that stood for another 40 years – most points by a team, largest margin of victory and most points by both teams.
Mariani carried 17 times for 184 yards and scored touchdowns on runs of 39, 54 and 10 yards.
The City took a 7-6 lead late after one quarter, but the County scored two touchdowns in each of the remaining three quarters.
The City team was plagued by six turnovers, including an interception that Old Forge’s Lou Pugliano returned 49 yards for a touchdown. And, when it tried to counter Mariani’s steady running with its own deep passing attack, three potential touchdown passes were dropped.
Abington Heights players were also responsible for three touchdowns in the rout by the team coached by current Dream Game player-coach liaison Jerry Preschutti.
John Nubani had a 1-yard touchdown run and hit high school teammate George DeGilio with a 14-yard touchdown pass. Larry Corbett caught a 20-yard touchdown pass from Riverside’s Bob Drusbosky.
EDITOR’S NOTE: The 87th annual Scranton Lions Club-sponsored Dream Game is scheduled for July 21 at Valley View’s John Henzes/Veterans Memorial Stadium in Peckville. NATION NOSTALGIA will take a daily look at the game’s history between now and this year’s game, which is being presented by Northeast Rehab and Riverfront Sports.
