Panthers emerge in defensive battle

In the Homecoming game, the previous week, the Saratoga Panthers exploded for 54 points against visiting Guernsey. Last Friday night in their game played at Wright they only scored 6. But 6 was enough. The smothering Panthers defense shut their opponent out to secure a 6-0 win.

Saratoga forced four turnovers on the night. Defensive standout Hazen Williams had a fumble recovery. Allyster Ingraham recovered two balls forced away from Wright ball carriers. Griffin Barlett added an interception.

Although those players names show on the stat sheet this was a total team effort on defense. Saratoga limited the Wright Panthers to 136 yards of offense. It is hard to shut an opposing team out at any level, so this was a notable achievement by the Panthers. Saratoga has brought solid, hard hitting play to every game. They show position disciple and understand assignments. And embrace a team concept.

The touchdown was scored by Jace Westring on an inside dive play. The performance of the game - maybe the year - was turned in by Snowdon Williams who rushed for an eye popping 209 yards on 25 carries. That 8.4 yards per carry average kept the ball away from the Wright team. The Williams rushing show is even more impressive given the sloppy field conditions, a byproduct of heavy rain the day before the game. Head coach Todd Weber offered “The team continues to play hard and improve week by week. All of the coaches are proud of every player and the work they’ve put in.”. Saratoga will be in action this Thursday in a home game with the visiting Hornets of Pine Bluffs. Kick off is at 6:00p.