Durham (LOSSA) Preview: Holy Trinity Titans vs. Eastdale Eagles

It’s almost that time again, that time when high school football players can finally hit someone in a different colour jersey.  For the Holy Trinity Titans that time comes on September 20th against the Eastdale Eagles.  Holy Trinity looks to open with a convincing win, as they want to put themselves back into the category of LOSSA (Lake Ontario Secondary Schools Athletics Association) and even OFSAA (Ontario Federation of School Athletic Association) threats.  No team wants open with a loss so there is no doubt the Eagles will fight hard and play to win.

The Titans have always played a ground attack game whether the runs are outside or inside.  Establishing a strong ground game has always been a priority for head coach Fred Zinkie’s teams.  Look for more of the same against the Eagles this Friday, with much of their offensive line being second year starters.  Don’t be fooled by Holy Trinity’s commitment to the run, as the Titans have a very capable quarterback in second year starter Chris Waldinsperger.

On defense the Titans look to find out a little bit about themselves after losing two of their starting linebackers and some of their defensive line. Their secondary remains intact, with the majority of their starters returning.  The defence will try to prove that they can reload and mirror the defence that only allowed 3 points in Holy Trinity’s Metro Bowl win.

There is little known about the Eagles squad that  has won two straight championships in the second tier of LOSSA, who recently abolished the tier system.  With a supposedly good offensive line and a probable difference maker in running back Aaron Young who accounted for 83% of the  junior Eagles offence, it wouldn’t be surprising to see the Eagles try and establish something on the ground early to try and control the tempo.  Going to the air will be inevitable as it is 3 down football, and having the success they had in the past they must be competent in the passing game.

Holy Trinity is the favourite in most people’s minds, but make no mistake Holy Trinity must take Eastdale seriously.  In this situation Eastdale  fits the analogy of a cornered raccoon, dangerous  if you don’t take it seriously.  For Holy Trinity to win, they must take the game to Eastdale  early, and take the Eagles out of the game .   For Eastdale to win they must hang tough for three quarters and make sure the game is still up for grabs in the fourth quarter.  If it is, look for the Eagles to dig deep and pull out a road win to open the season.