The Bottom Line
By Bill Nestor
Sports Editor
In Shinnston fans are still partying following Lincoln’s most recent win. This Cougar football team has claimed several victories this season, so why is this one different? Head Coach, Rob Hawkins and his team made history with their 35-12 win this past Friday over Independence. This triumph was the first ever playoff win for the school. There have been some exceptional squads from past years, but none of them were able to accomplish what this group has done.
Don’t expect Hawkins to stop here because he knows that there is more work to be done. The Cougars welcome a rematch with Class AA’s top team. Lincoln will head to Wayne Jamison Field this weekend to battle Bridgeport.
The Indians shook off a shaky start to defeat Roane County last Friday, 28-7. The Tribe moved to 11-0 on the campaign with the convincing win and are three wins away from becoming the first ever team in West Virginia to win four consecutive state championships.
This upcoming lock up between the Cougars and the Indians is the most intriguing second round playoff game in the state. Going into this battle, Lincoln is hitting its stride while playing some of its best football of the season and their confidence level is at an all-time high. It’s a must see for all football fans.
The Mounties turned up the defensive pressure, forcing 21 turnovers and cashing them in for 26 points. Veteran Head Coach, Bob Huggins took a long look at his entire roster as 11 players played 12 or more minutes. The bench chipped in, scoring 42 points in the lopsided victory. Former Morgantown High School standout, Nathan Adrian led WVU with 13 points.
I was fortunate to be a part of a pair of firsts this past Saturday at Salem International University. It was the opening game of the season for the Tigers who have a new Head Coach. Adam Williams is the new sheriff in town and his squad dropped a highly competitive contest to Seton Hill.
For the last few years I have been fortunate to join Reuben Perdue on the Tiger internet broadcasts. This afforded me the opportunity to meet with Williams prior to the matchup with the Griffins. I was impressed with his basketball knowledge and his overall attitude as well.
Williams expects his players to play hard and provide maximum effort which is exactly what I witnessed at the T. Edward Davis gymnasium. Williams coached from the opening tip to the final buzzer showing his players and fans in attendance that he practices what he preaches. I was most impressed with the way he held his players focus during time outs. I know that you old schoolers out there would expect that, but it is not always the case. All of the Tigers (including players on the bench) were totally engaged in the message that Williams was sending. I left Salem with nothing but promising thoughts about this program.
That will do it of now. Until next week…take care and God Bless!
