Vikings have hope in district

Tance Hughes

Published Friday, October 10, 2008

Vidalia — The Vidalia Vikings are not having the season they were hoping for so far, but have another shot to turn things around as they open up District 3-3A play against Bunkie tonight.

Vidalia (1-3, 0-0) is a roller coaster team and nobody knows what to expect when they come to play, especially their head coach, Dee Faircloth.

“This is a mystery team,” Faircloth said. “We will just have to wait and see Friday night.”

The Vikings are facing Bunkie High School, who many are predicting to win the district this year.

“Everybody claims Bunkie is on the inside track to win district,” Faircloth said. “They have a lot of speed and their quarterback is a scary youngster.”

Vidalia’s defense will need to step up in this game as the Vikings are allowing an average of 33.5 points per game.

The offense is currently only averaging 12.5 points per game and need a solid effort in order to give Vidalia a chance to win.

The Panthers (3-1) will rely on junior quarterback Kendrick Leary who will be a threat to Vidalia.

“If we can stop Leary we have a shot,” Faircloth said.

The Vikings are coming off a 28-14 loss at Jena and were down 21-0 at halftime before putting up 14 points in the second half.

“This is a big ball game for us,” Faircloth said. “I hope the kids show up for two halves this time.”

The game is set for 7 p.m. at Dee Faircloth Viking Stadium in Vidalia.