Fayette and Harrisburg Set for Rematch in District Semifinals
After meeting for their annual regular season game a month ago, Fayette and Harrisburg will renew their rivalry in a district semifinal football game Friday night in Fayette. The Falcons won the first meeting 42-26 thanks in part to a strong ground game. Fayette racked up 373 yards total on the ground in the victory. Fayette coach Mike Thompson says the offensive line has been a big key to their running game’s success.
Aside from a 37-0 shutout loss to Marceline, the Falcons offense has been dominant all year averaging over 45 points per game on their way to compiling a 9-1 record. The Falcons have rushed for 3,223 yards this season and thrown for an additional 1,341. Thompson discusses the goals of the offense against Harrisburg.
Harrisburg comes in with a record of 8-2 and is coming off a 28-16 win over Father Tolton in the opening round of district play. Harrisburg coach Steve Hopkins says the key against Fayette this time around will be slowing down their offense as much as possible.
While Fayette saw success on the ground in the first matchup, Harrisburg did most of their damage through the air with Tanner Lanes throwing for three touchdowns. Hopkins says they will need to be efficient throwing and running the ball in order to be successful against Fayette.
The winner of Friday night’s game will advance to next week’s district championship game. Pregame coverage will begin at 6:40 pm on 99.9 The Captain and centralmoinfo.com. Colin Schowe will have the play-by-play.
