NEWBERRY — The Newberry High School Bulldogs are gearing up for game one of the season as they take on Keenan High School Friday night at Mike Ware Field.
Head Coach Phil Strickland has been preparing the team for the match-up against the Raiders, making sure they do work offensively and defensively.
“We’re trying to get used to the heat. But Keenan is big on the offensive and defensive block and they may wear down but they have really talented athletes. Their quarterback and wide receiver are really good. They are talented, skilled players and so we’ve gotta take those young men out of the game,” said Strickland.
Tyriq Goodman will be serving as quarterback for the Bulldogs.
“He’s got a lot of game experience, but it’s a big difference between summer workouts and live games. He just needs to go out there and make good decisions and try to avoid rusher which is what we’re trying to work on that more than anything,” said Strickland.
The Bulldogs will also be missing a few players due to injuries and will need to not give up big plays and hold onto the football if they want to bring home the win Friday.
“We’re slowly but surely getting kids back from injuries. Some of them will be out for the year but we’re getting there. Other than that, we are pretty healthy,” said Strickland. “We can’t let them control a lot of scrimmage and we don’t want to give up big plays. We need to make them earn every yard they get and hold onto the football.
“We always want to try and win the turnover battle,” he added. “Keenan always seems to have some really good athletes, but if you give Keenan an inch they’ll take a mile. These kids have been working since last December and they are just hungry to get out there and play again and hopefully bring home the win.”
Kickoff time is scheduled for 7:30 p.m.