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« Rider defensive line makes the plays at crunch time | Main | Raiders’ secondary facing challenge against Estacado tonight »

Northside embraces underdog role in state quarterfinals
November 30, 2007 1:28 PM

By Zach Duncan

Thursday, November 29, 2007

Not very often does a defending state champion become an underdog in the next year's postseason.

But that is exactly where No. 7 Northside (10-2) finds itself heading into its Six-man Division II state quarterfinal match against No. 2 Woodson.

Although it's an unfamiliar role for the Indians, who square off against the Cowboys at 7:30 p.m. today in Breckenridge, it is one that is welcomed.

"I kind of like playing the part of the underdog. In fact, I relish it," Northside coach Ed Donahue said. "We're really looking forward to playing this game. Woodson can definitely beat us."

That's something Donahue hasn't been able to say about most teams his team has played the past two seasons. Seven of the Indians' eight wins (not counting forfeits by Notre Dame and Harrold) in 2007 have been of the mercy-rule variety.

After losing its first two games to competitive Division I schools, Woodson has rattled off 10 straight victories. The Cowboys also will be out for revenge after Northside claimed an 82-52 win in this playoff round last year.

"They're better this year than last year," Donahue said. "They are very well-coached and they know what's going on at all times. This game will be a toss-up."

Donahue said Woodson's Robert Perez is the best player his team has seen this year with the exception of Richland Springs' Tyler Ethridge. Perez "does everything on offense" and wingback Caleb Hagle is also a big-play threat for a team averaging 58 points a game.

Donahue said while the team is progressing every week, the Indians still aren’t playing at the level they were last year. Part of that is because of the two forfeits and several games called at the half, and another reason is the more diversified offense Donahue has installed this season.

"We're getting better and better," Donahue said. "We have the talent, but we just haven't gotten there yet.�

Still, the Indians have plenty of offensive weapons, including Colby White and Corey Samson, who scored three touchdowns in last week's playoff win. Zack Agnew and Landry Freeling are also difference-makers on when the Indians have the ball.

"We ran four different sets with kids at deep back," Donahue said about last week's win. "It's truly amazing how we're able to spread it around with all of those guys. Everybody scored and did a great job."

Staff sports writer Zach Duncan can be reached weekdays after 4 p.m. by calling 720-3470 or 1-800-627-1646. Or e-mail him at duncanz(at)timesrecordnews.com.


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