Written by Angie Huang
The East Ridge Raptors lost 7-42 to the Lakeville North Panthers at home two weeks ago, and in a close game last Friday, the Raptors lost 36-42 against Rochester Mayo, putting the Raptors at a 2-6 regular season record.
This Friday, the Raptors play against the Anoka Tornadoes for their first sections playoff game of the season.
The Raptors offense was subdued in their game against Lakeville, with 7 completions out of 15 attempts, finishing the game with 184 yards.
The Raptors also fumbled several times, putting Lakeville’s offense in excellent scoring position.
Lakeville played a consistent and explosive run game, with halfback Sam Ripplinger (#33) running for a 52 yard touchdown in the first quarter and a 77 yard touchdown in the fourth quarter. Lakeville finished the game with 410 yards.
The Raptors will have to focus on details and work on keeping up their offensive and defensive game before their playoff game at Anoka.
The team is actively working hard to improve their stamina for the rest of the season. Raptors running back Isaac Walker (#36) knows that his team will need to hone in mentally.
“Keep up the momentum,” he said. “Pick each other up if [we] make a mistake.” Although the past two losses have been disappointing, the Raptors are sure that those games will not affect their momentum. As Walker put it, “Don’t be afraid to lose.”
On the defensive side, the Raptors will be working on playing a consistent game, which means improving ball security and keeping their energy high.
“Some drives, we lose momentum, we lose our stamina,” says Raptors linebacker Max Knaup (#47). “Focus on what [we] can do.”
East Ridge fans will be cheering on the Raptors on Friday at Anoka!
