Facing a deficit for the first time Friday afternoon, Perkiomen School's offense unveiled a new wrinkle. On the ensuing drive after losing the lead, the unit shifted into no-huddle mode.

        "We wanted to try something different," head coach Tom Calvario said. "I guess the move paid off."

        The Panthers (2-0) parlayed the adjustment into the decisive touchdown in an 18-13 victory over Tower Hill.

        Brett Ciocari, Perkiomen School's senior quarterback, led the decisive drive with poise and calmness. The junior completed three passes for 29 yards, including the winning score.

        Ciocari's four-yard touchdown toss to Ja'ren Hampton midway through the fourth quarter completed the comeback from a 13-12 deficit and snapped a four-game losing streak in the series.

        "Brett did a great job," Calvario said. "He's maturing before my eyes."

        The quarterback, who finished with 130 yards passing and two scores on 8-of-13 attempts, credited the performance of Perkiomen School's offensive line and its running backs.

        "Our offensive linemen were well rested at that point in the game," Ciocari said. "They came off the ball fast and pushed the defensive line off the field.

        Ciocari also expressed an appreciation for his receivers, including Hampton and Josh Cruz.

        "I trust all the guys I throw to," the quarterback said. "But I love Ja'ren's height."

        Hampton - a 6-foot-5 senior from Trenton, N.J. - outjumped Tower Hill defensive back Taurus Pinkney in the back corner of the end zone for the decisive score.

        On the ensuing two-point conversion attempt, Hampton ran a similar route, but Ciocari's high-arching throw landed out the back of the end zone.

        Perkiomen School took an early 12-0 lead. Cruz scored on a 52-yard reception on the team's second play from scrimmage to open the scoring.

        Midway through the second quarter, Steven Ratigan's seven-yard touchdown run extended the lead to 12-0. The play capped a 14-play, 79-yard drive. Cruz's 11-yard reception on fourth down extended the series. Hampton's 23-yard catch on third down set up the score.

        "We came out with the right mindset," Ciocari said. "We were ready to play."

        The Panthers' defense dominated the first half, allowing just one first down. Still, Calvario said he knew the Hillers would continue to battle.

        "Even with the 12-point lead, I knew this would not be easy sledding for us," the coach said. "Tower Hill is a very good, well coached team."

        Utilizing their single wing offense, the Hillers mounted two scoring drives in the second half. They took the opening kickoff 54 yards on seven plays. Kevin Turner's 16-yard run off right tackle brought them within 12-7 midway through the third quarter.

        The Panthers unwillingness to punt on fourth down late in the third quarter set up a short field for Tower Hill, which took advantage.

        Taurus Pinkney capped a seven-play, 34-yard drive with a one-yard touchdown run early in the fourth quarter to put the visiting Hillers a 13-12 lead.

        "Tower Hill runs its offense really well," Calvario said. "That team is relentless."