Despite weather, North wins first home game

            Despite the bad weather conditions, PNH Football won their first home game against Oakville 14-7 this past Friday Aug 31.

            Last week, the Vikings played against Saint Louis University High and suffered a tough loss of 6-7.  The Vikings endured a tough week of practice to ensure a win against Oakville.

            “The practice the week of the game was intense, we went through all of the plays we know and were going to run,” said junior Gabe Sander, center for the team.  “Coaches made sure that everyone knew what special teams they’re on.  Defensive coaches had the defense practice against the JV who was running Oakville plays so that they got used to seeing them.”

            This practice paid off when senior Jonathan Little stopped three of Oakville’s touchdowns at the five yard line.

            Sander said, “I think football is different than in the past because we are a lot more connected as a team, and this summer we worked a lot harder in the weight room than in years past. I think we have a good team this year that has a lot of potential.”

            Potential won’t cover it all, the Vikings will have to put their potential to a test next week against The Rockwood Summit Falcons.

            “If we keep improving every week we can do really well this season,” Sander said.

            If the Vikings keep up the hard work they have been doing in practice, they will go on to have a winning season.

            Head football coach Bob Bunton said, “I was very proud of our kids for really showing some mental toughness in holding Oakville inside the 5 yard line on two different occasions. I thought our kids played through some tough weather elements and we were pleased to come out of the game with a victory. Now, we begin the tough Suburban South Conference portion of our schedule and we are going to have to play very, very well each and every week if we want to come away with wins.”

            The Vikings will have to practice hard to achieve the wins they want to this year, but the team seems to be ready for a winning season.

 by Mary-Kate Mudd