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Wednesday, Nov. 04, 2009

West Laurens looks to end playoff drought

Drew Morris knows that Friday night’s game against Burke County is the most important game he has played in as a four-year starter for West Laurens.

All the Raiders have to do is win, and they reach the playoffs, something they have not done in his career. And Morris believes that Mark Pemberton, in his first year as the head coach at West Laurens, and his coaching staff have the Raiders ready to do just that.

“I think that he has us prepared,” Morris said. “We were off last week, and that gave us two weeks to get ready for this game. The attitude has been great all year. We all knew that Coach Pemberton was coming to us as a proven winner, and I think that all of us thought that he could get us into the playoffs. We have our chance Friday night.”

If the Raiders lose Friday, they will miss the playoffs for a fourth straight year. Pemberton has faith that his team will come out ready to play.

“We have had very good practices the last two weeks,” Pemberton said. “Everything is a little bit easier for them, and we are excited about the opportunity that we have. This team has had some ups and downs this year, but everyone has stuck to the goal of making the playoffs. Burke County is a very good football team, but we have them at home in our new stadium, and I am sure we will fill our side up. This community is hungry for a winner.”

Leading the way for the Raiders will be senior wide receiver Trell Showers, who is averaging more than 22 yards per catch with seven touchdowns. Although the Raiders run the wing-T or triple-option most of the time, Pemberton is not afraid to throw the football.

“We feel like Showers is a weapon, and we have done a great job in getting the football to him,” Pemberton said. “Ross Miles, our quarterback, does not throw often but is very capable of getting the ball downfield.”

West Laurens’ ground game is led by Rodney O’Neal, who has run for 670 yards with 10 touchdowns, and Demetrius Green, who has gained 668 yard with eight touchdowns. West Laurens is averaging 29 points per game, while the defense is giving up almost 20 points per game.

“I think our defense will need to step up against Burke County,” Pemberton said. “Our goal is to hold the teams we play to 14 points. If we can do that, I think we will be in great shape. We have played some very good teams close this year, and all the kids are excited. Hopefully, we will get the job done.”