By Jen Johnson
Special to The Citizen

Rain drizzled down on Tiger Stadium as fans, accessorized with ponchos and umbrellas, filed into their seats.

Fayette’s defense started strong, stopping the Patriots and quickly regaining the ball at their own 22 yard line.

“Defense played hard out there. We left it all on the field, and gave it 110%,” said senior Andre Columbus.

In the beginning of the game, the offense stumbled with flags being pulled on their plays. Thus, resulting in multiple five yard penalties. Despite this, team morale stayed high as they continued to fight for the win. By the end of the first quarter, the score was tied: 0-0.

Pulling into the second quarter, the Sandy Creek Patriots scored a field goal. The Fayette offense stalled on their ensuing drive.

“I feel like defense gave us every opportunity to make a score, but the offense was unable to capitalize,” said freshman Justin Murray. For the remaining time in the second quarter, both teams began a complicated power struggle for control. Sandy Creek couldn’t get past Fayette’s defense, and visa versa. With seconds left in the quarter, Fayette offense dropped a knee to run out the clock for the remainder of the half.

Fayette refused to give up as they proudly marched back onto the field. “We came out for the first time happy, and eager… We got a lot more accomplished,” said senior Evan Reid. Hard hits from Fayette, and flags against Sandy Creek epitomized the third quarter. No team was willing to back down.

The competition became fierce as mere minutes were left in the game. Sandy Creek, sensing Fayette’s determination, flustered and received several penalties. Still, at the end, Sandy Creek came out victorious.

“I feel like we’ve come a long way, but we have yet to reach our peak. We have a lot to work on, but we have also gotten better in other places,” said senior Malcolm Reed.

“The team played as a unit. We worked hard this week, and knew what was coming. Losses always hurt the most when you know you gave it your all,” said senior Patrick Blankenbeker.

Goals for the upcoming week began to fill the heads of the Fayette County players. “We worked hard during the week and will strive to perfect our weaknesses before Whitewater,” said Steven Smitts. The team will face Whitewater on Friday, October 24 at 7:30pm at their own Tiger Stadium.

Head Coach Tommy Webb parted the game with pride. “I could not be prouder of a group of guys. We’ve been waiting on this effort all year. This is something we can really build on as we go through the rest of this year,” said Webb