The Lakeland Hawks (3-3) were defeated by the Post Falls Trojans (4-1) 55-0 on Sept. 22. The game took place in Post Falls and was the Trojans’ homecoming game.
Post Falls’ stands were packed, and people flooded beyond the bleachers to watch the game. After every touchdown, the Trojans lit fireworks past the endzone, making the atmosphere even louder than before.
Heading into the game, Hawks players knew Post Falls would be a tough matchup, but they hoped to play with more intensity than the prior blowout loss to Coeur d’Alene.
Post Falls was able to score on the game’s opening drive. From that point on, the game seemed decided.
Though the Trojans only led 7-0 after the first quarter, various touchdowns in the second quarter, paired with unsuccessful Lakeland possessions, gave Post Falls a lead of 35-0 at halftime.
At halftime, the team was told to come out and keep their energy up, along with their attitudes.
Compared to the first half, the second was significantly better for the Hawks defensively. Roan Reilly secured an interception, which lifted everyone for a time and kept their intensity high.
Unfortunately, the game ended in favor of the Trojans with a score of 55-0, but the Hawks were able to keep their heads up throughout the game.
Looking back on it, the team does feel like they played with more intensity than they did against Coeur d’Alene, but they have things they can continue to fix.
“I think this bye week will be very beneficial for us because we have many injured guys, and it gives us time to recuperate,” said Carter Vanek.
This week, the Hawks have a bye week in their schedule, which will give them time to prepare for Sandpoint on Oct. 6 at 7 p.m. in Sandpoint, ID.
Heading into Sandpoint, players know that they need to improve their chemistry with one another and improve all around.
“I feel like we need to play better as a team, and everyone needs to hold each other accountable,” said Clive Hobbs.
Having the opportunity to rest is essential to the players as they will have a whole extra week of preparation compared to what Sandpoint is given.
