Akins helps Knights cruise

If they had a highlights tape of the North Penn football team, it would premier in a movie theatre.

That's where the Knights belong - on the big screen.

North Penn might just end up in Hershey in the PIAA Class AAAA state final on Dec. 13. If the Knights get there, they will surely display explosive special effects, five-star performances and a high degree of unpredictability.

Last night at William Tennent's Claude Lodge Field, Neshaminy played the role of the latest overmatched antagonist.

The Knights defeated the Redskins, 28-0, in the much-anticipated District 1 Class AAAA championship game.

On this night, Ronnie Akins had the starring role for North Penn.

The senior flanker had 11 carries for 140 yards and two touchdowns, covering 42 and 10 yards. Akins also caught a 5-yard touchdown pass.

"I just tried to do what I knew I can do," Akins said. "Coach just put me in the position to win. And that's what we are doing. I'm doing work."

Akins' performance led the Knights to their first district title since 2005 and fourth in seven seasons. The win also sent The Inquirer's top-ranked Southeastern Pennsylvania team into Friday's state semifinal at Claude Lodge.

North Penn (14-0) will face the winner of today's noon George Washington vs. Bethlehem Liberty quarterfinal at Northeast.

Neshaminy (12-2), however, only gets the satisfaction of making its first district final since 2004. The area's third-ranked Redskins also had their 13-game winning streak snapped.

Reaching the state semifinal was expected of North Penn.

The Knights are averaging 36.7 points, while holding opponents to 11.7 a game this season.

With Akins leading the way, North Penn compiled 242 rushing yards last night. The Knights defense recorded four sacks, intercepted two passes and recovered two Neshaminy fumbles.

Neshaminy 0 0 0 0 - 0

North Penn 7 0 14 7 - 28

NP: Akins 42 run (McManus kick)

NP: Smith 1 run (McManus kick)

NP: Akins 10 run (McManus kick)

NP: Akins 5 pass from Davey (McManus kick)