Sports
Game Preview: Point Pleasant Ready To Renew Rivalry With Gallia Academy
By: Justin McCauley
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The last time Gallia Academy and Point Pleasant played each other we were in a different decade. The Big Blacks were still playing conference games in Ohio, and Gallia Academy was at the top of their game.
After some time off, the two schools will re-open the rivalry on Friday at Point Pleasant. Gallia Academy has won the last five meetings between the two schools, outscoring the Big Blacks 162-56 in those five games.
A lot has changed for the two schools since that last meeting in 2008, as the Blue Devils are on their third head coach in as many years. Meanwhile Point Pleasant is on an 18-regular season winning streak. The last loss for the Big Blacks would be at Oak Hill on October 5th, 2012.
The Big Blacks (4-0) offense has been virtually unstoppable this season, averaging 51.7 points per game, led by quarterback Aden Yates, and running back Cody Mitchell. Last week against Logan, Mitchell set a new school record with seven touchdowns in the game.
Even with the rivalry game looming, the Big Blacks are going to prepare just as if its any other week.
“This is just another game,” said Point Pleasant coach David Darst. “We didn’t have to do any other motivation, the kids seem to be paying extra attention this week in school and practice.”
Even with the high-powered offense, the Point Pleasant defense has been the untold story so far this season. “They (defense) have been really giving us great field position for our offense and have really helped start our offense,” Darst said.
The Big Blacks have only given up 22 points in the four games so far. And not only can the defense stop the scoring, but they can score themselves. The Big Black defenders have scored a Touchdown in every game so far this season.
This game and rivalry means a lot not only to the players but also the communities who are only separated by a short drive across the Ohio River. So while there is a game to be played there is also pride on the line and whether you are a Big Black or a Blue Devil this game is a must-win.
“I tell my players to expect the unexpected,” said Darst.
The Blue Devils and Big Blacks kick off at 7:30 p.m. on Friday.
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