WALPOLE- It was a beautiful afternoon to renew a rivalry at Walpole’s Turco Field as crosstown rivals Norwood and Walpole met in a game scrimmage.

The long time rivals both return talented squads and are among the favorites in their respective leagues. 

Here three observations from the scrimmage.

1. Mustangs return good senior class: Norwood returns a good senior class led by Jack Dwyer, Drew Bartucca, Danny Russo and Brian Dearborn. All four paved the way for a competitive scrimmage. Dearborn made a nice catch along the left sideline to extend Norwood’s opening drive. Dwyer scored on a 55 yard touchdown run as well. 

Norwood plays a good schedule so the Mustangs will be tested early but it appears like they have the talent to not only win the Tru-Valley large but to make a run in Division Four.

2. T-Wolves have skill aplenty: Walpole return’s senior quarterback Noah MacKenzie as well as a bevy of talented skill players including seniors Will McGrath, Matthew St. Cyr and Cash Cantrell. They will score points.

Walpole’s defense is also primed for a big season as they look physical and fast. Coach Chris Sullivan beefed up the schedule playing KP, Foxboro and Natick plus what appears to be a loaded Bay State slate. If nothing else, his team will be ready for the grind of the playoffs.

3. Rivalry rekindled: The Norwood, Walpole rivalry is one of the best in the state. Both teams have a long history of disdain but respect. Both Norwood coach Manny Lopes and Sullivan have said they would like to renew the rivalry during the regular season at some point. It would be nice. It is a great rivalry.