Sports
Trimble, Belpre Both Have Redemption in Mind
By: Kelsi Steele
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Two of the TVC-Hockings premier teams from last season came into the season with high expectations, but both stumbled out of the starting blocks.
Belpre (0-1) and Trimble (0-1) head into Friday’s meeting, both disappointed with their season-opening performances and hungry for win No. 1.
For the Tomcats, Friday’s loss against Nelsonville York will serve as as motivation for the rest of the season.
“They were pretty upset, I’m glad they are,” head coach Phil Faires said,” Not many teams say they win 28 in a row. These guys expect to win them all.”
That being said, Faires acknowledged the team’s weak spots and are aware of what must be addressed.
“We gotta have some young guys grow up right away. It’s hard to make up what we’ve lost. We have to get these young guys some experience,” Faires said.
As for Belpre, experience is the least of its worries.
Belpre returns all but one player from playoff-caliber 2014 roster. Tavian Miller, Deijon Bedgood, and Nathan Mason each present challenges to Trimble’s defense.
Most notably: Miller’s ability within the pocket, Mason’s strength up front, and Bedgood’s play-making abilities.
“If you don’t stop Bedgood, he will run wild on you. He might be one of the fastest kids in the league,” said Faires.
The Tomcats played on Saturday, so coaches and players got the chance to go watch and scout the Golden Eagles last Friday.
With that extra bit of preparation, Faires has full belief in his team this Friday, as long as the right one comes to play.
“Belpre has a good team; they’re looking for a little revenge for themselves,” Faires said, “I think our kids will be ready to play.”
Whether or not the right team shows up, Faires is sure of one thing.
“We’ve got this bad feeling in our gut and we can’t wait to get rid of it.”
Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m. from Belpre.