Sports
New Lexington Focusing on Fundamentals Ahead of Fairfield Union Game
By: Megan Stamper
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Dog fights. That’s the word New Lexington head coach David Rupe used to describe the games between the Panthers and the Fairfield Union Falcons the past few years. He doesn’t expect Friday’s match up to be any different.
“That team is big, it will go all the way down to the wire like last year if we give them opportunities,” Rupe said.
If the Panthers want to kick off their 2015 campaign with a win, then team chemistry will be important. Earlier in the summer many of the players stressed how important it would be for them to come together before their first game. Rupe says he has seen a major improvement in his team’s bond.
“We really came together, especially after the last scrimmage.” Rupe said. “We keep telling the guys it’s about the guy beside you, not just you.”
After finishing the past two seasons with .500 records, New Lexington will have to play fundamental football if they want to get over that mark.
“When it comes down to the game of football, blocking and tackling are important,” Rupe said. “We can’t have turnovers and we need to make sure we’re still in the game in the fourth quarter.”
The Panthers will look to put their fundamental skills to the test Aug. 28 at 7 p.m. when they host Fairfield Union.