By MICHAEL BOYLAN
Sports Editor

If you were at last year's football game between Starr's Mill and Sandy Creek, you'd know why it is important that you don't miss this year's match.

Last year, the game went into the final drive before Starr's Mill pulled out a victory over the Patriots. Though the game was played at Sandy Creek, the field was full of Starr's Mill fans by game's end. That game made the statement that there is a new rivalry in the county, and it is a good one.

Starr's Mill is currently 6-1 and in sole possession of second place in Region 4-AAA. The team has been led this season by a multi-talented group of running backs — Craig Maddock, Reuben Houston, LaDon Cooper — and the ability, confidence and leadership of quarterback Brad McClaren. The Panthers' defense has also been outstanding, limiting the superstars on other teams to fairly meager evenings. Matt Defenbaugh, Tony Tofanelli and Matt Fuhrmann play well each week and are capable of turning their team around at any given moment.

Sandy Creek is 5-2 and tied for fourth place and the final playoff spot in the region. The Patriots' strength on offense is the athletic ability and speed of running backs Mark Lawson and J.R. Lemon and the quarterback Andre Green. Sandy Creek possesses a lot of power and intensity, displayed on both sides of the ball for the duration of the game.

Jermaine Harris sees time on offense and defense and he is a presence in the middle of the field. Harris, also a basketball player for Sandy Creek, has a height advantage over most and is an interception threat that strikes fear in most high school offensive coordinators.

Lots of credit for the two teams' successes has to go to their coaches. Mike Earwood has developed a formidable team at Starr's Mill. They are a disciplined bunch that show up ready to play each week and still have fun on the field. Rodney Walker took the reins at Sandy Creek this season and has got the Patriots using the talents and athletic ability that choke the hallways at the school.

Last week, Starr's Mill defeated Jones County 27-13, while Sandy Creek lost to Woodward Academy 35-7. The Panthers want to protect their bragging rights and secure a good playoff spot, while a win for the Patriots would open up the entire playoff picture in Region 4-AAA. If Starr's Mill can keep its offense on the field and establish long drives, the Panthers should be successful. The Patriots must get huge production from Lawson and Lemon, pounding the defensive line of the Panthers.

It should be a great game and it is much too close to call. The game will be played at 7:30 p.m. this Friday at Tiger Stadium at Fayette County High School.

In other Friday night matches, McIntosh (1-7) hosts Newnan (6-2), while Fayette County (3-5) travels to Griffin (4-4). East Coweta (6-2) will host Carver, Columbus (4-4) and Northgate (4-3) hosts Temple (0-7). Landmark Christian (1-6) will host Mt. Zion, Carrollton (1-6).

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