NSSAFFL: Dragons, Panthers kickoff playoffs with consolation game under Friday Night Lights

If the previous two games between the Panthers (0-6-0, zero points) and the Dragons (1-5-0, two points) serve as any indication, Friday’s game should be an extremely close, yet competitive game.

“Lockview versus Prince Andrew has always been a close hard fought battle,” explains Panthers head coach Joe Flemming. “Last year, we came out on top by one point off of our kickers’ foot.”

“This year, Lockview came out on top after their kicker put the ball through the uprights.”

Dragons head coach Mike Korecki concurs with Flemming.

“The last two games that Prince Andrew and Lockview have played have been decided by three points total so we both match up real well against each other,” adds Korecki.

Not only has there been history between the two teams, but familiarity as well.

“We know each other very well as Prince Andrew and Lockview border each other so a lot of our players know each other well,” says the Dragons head coach.

Since there is familiarity, the Dragons know what to expect from their opponent out on the field.

“They have a real nice team which we have to prepare for,” assesses Korecki.  “The Panthers have a strong running attack plus a stout defence.”

For the Panthers, the game on Friday will be a chance to put a disappointing 2012 season behind them.  Ultimately, Flemming says while the team will rely on their key strength during the game, they are hopeful game preparation will result in a victory.

“This game gives Prince Andrew an opportunity to prove they can overcome a very difficult year, and rebound in the playoffs,” comments the Panthers head coach.  “We’ve had a lot of success on special teams at Prince Andrew this year, and I expect our guys to take it up another notch tomorrow night.”

“They’ve been working hard all week to make sure they’re prepared and ready to go. We expect a full team effort and a truck load of heart to show up for this game.”

Overall, both teams have tremendous respect for each other and are looking forward to an exciting, yet entertaining game under Friday Night Lights.

“We respect what their team puts on the field, as I’m sure they’re not taking us lightly either,” says Flemming.  “We’re ready to go and can’t wait to hit the field.”

“It’s going to be a fast pace exciting game to be in and I expect both of our teams to be ready to rock Friday night.”

TEAM NOTES/PREVIOUS MEETING:

PRINCE ANDREW PANTHERS (PA):
2012 Record:  0-6-0 (7th place)
Coaching Staff:
Head Coach:  Joe Flemming (6th season)
Assistants:  Greg Melanson, Bryan Ellis, Bobby Tink, Anthony Williams, Rick Moore, Mark White and Chris Liberatore
Players to Watch:  Riley Potter (quarterback), Nate Skeete (defensive back), Hyato Ota (running back)

LOCKVIEW PANTHERS (LHS):
2012 Record:  1-5-0 (6th place)
Head Coach:  Mike Korecki
Players to Watch:  Dan Mader (quarterback/running back), Ryan Cornish (offensive lineman), Trevor Howse (offensive lineman), Rogan Steele (receiver), James Pelley (linebacker), Alex Murney (defensive tackle), Justin Wiemer (defensive tackle), Colin Murney, Colin MacLean (slotback), Matt Harnish (defense)

PREVIOUS MATCHUP IN 2012:  The Lockview Dragons eked out the win as the team was successful on a field goal attempt with 15 seconds remaining on the clock.  The team defeated the Prince Andrew Panthers 24-22.

Early in that game, the victors jumped out to a 14-0 lead.  However, the Panthers responded back in towards the end of the first half forcing the Dragons to concede a safety and also scoring a major to cut down the lead.  At halftime, the Dragons had a 14-8 lead. Late in the game, the Dragons scored another touchdown to make the score 22-21.

“With less than a minute on the clock, and Prince Andrew on third down, the attempt was to get a good punt off and pin Lockview deep and manage the clock and seal the win,” explained Flemming. “Lockview sent a lot of heat, and with a slippery ball, our kicker didn’t get a clean crack at it and it as blocked.”

“This gave Lockview good field position and they were able to move the ball a few more yards and get within field goal range. They were successful in putting it through the uprights and stealing the game.”

Panthers quarterback Nate Skeete connected with Spencer Wiechert, Jake Moore and Ian Melanson for touchdowns in the loss.

“We had a great back and forth battle in the cold rain,” reflected the Panthers head coach.  “Both sides played with a lot of heart, but it was that special teams play to block our punt that was big turning point.”

“They did a nice job.”

Photos 1, 3 and 5 courtesy of Cathy Connell

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