Battle of the Backwoods
Sep. 29—Long time rivals will take to the gridiron as the Lakewood Leopards and the Union Spartans, square off for the first game of conference play.
Union and Lakewood have a storied history, but in recent years, it's been the Leopards taking the Spartans down. It was 2019, the last time Union would win against the Leopards. Coincidentally, it would also be their last victory before a long storm of losses dampened the spirit of Union. Their last three encounters ended in shutouts with Lakewood coming out on top, scoring 144 points in the combined competitions, leaving a nasty taste in the mouths of the Spartans.
Something new is brewing out in Rose-Hill, however, with the addition of Mark Oates. They would win their first game against Spring Creek on Sept 15. They'd follow that up with a big win over Jones Sr. The Spartans success has rejuvenated a slumbering Spartan spirit that has been a game changer for the community.
He spoke of their greatest obstacle going into this game which was summed up in one sentence.
"The biggest challenge is fighting the ghost from past seasons."
No doubt the Leopards haunt the dreams of the players and the school given recent encounters. Oates spoke about what his squad is bringing to the gridiron and what this means to them.
"Our team is bringing hunger to take the next step. This is an opportunity for growth. We have the opportunity to beat a team that nobody outside of our building thinks we can beat."
Out in Roseboro, the Leopards are prepping for the game, sharpening their claws looking to stop the Spartan train. Lakewood, under Barrett Sloan, has seen a resurgence as well. The Leopards have really sunk their teeth in the opposition this season as a wall of black and gold have caused a variety of issues for those in the backfield.
"We're confident. Our kids are rumbling and playing good ball. Hope our best ball is ahead with conference play starting. We gotta make sure we fix a few things. Overall, we feel pretty good with where we are heading."
Their defense has accrued 24 tackles for a loss, 10 quarterback hurries and eight sacks. Their tenacious defense has forced five fumbles and snatched nine picks on the year. While they've opened the throttle on the ground, raking yards in 1452 yards on 163 carries on their rushing crew. This has been the offensive engine that has earned them 26 touchdowns as of this writing.
Given the shortened time to prep for both teams because of make-up games on Monday, they will have to make a quick turnaround. Ice the joints, rest up and be ready for the battle as these two rivals face off for their first conference game of the season.
Game time is 7 p.m. with Union hosting.
Reach Anthony McConnaughey at amcconnaughey@clintonnc.com or on Twitter @SportsSampson
