TIGER LEADERS READY FOR DISTRICT BATTLE
Editor’s Note: On October 3, 1919, Republic played its first football game ever against Springfield High School (now Central), losing 44-0. In recognition of the resumption of Republic’s oldest football rivalry tonight, this preview is presented in the style of a 1919 sportswriter, because why not?
The Republic High School eleven, fresh from their decisive triumph over the Willard aggregation, will entertain the Springfield Central outfit Friday evening on the local gridiron in what promises to be a spirited contest for district honors.
Coach Cornelsen’s charges, who have compiled a splendid record of seven victories against two setbacks this season, demonstrated their mettle in their recent 35-7 conquest of Willard, wherein they emerged victorious after a rather sluggish initial period.
The contest marks the renewal of a rivalry that dates to the very inception of Republic’s gridiron program, when the Springfield Senior High eleven (now Central) administered two sound drubbings to the fledgling Tiger squad in 1919. In the modern series, however, the local lads have proven dominant, claiming victory in seven of their last eight encounters with their Springfield rivals.
“At this point in the year, you’ve got to be concerned with yourself and making sure that you’re playing at a high level,” declared Coach Cornelsen in addressing the sporting press. “It’s win or be done.”
SIGNAL-CALLER TO RETURN
The Tiger faithful will be heartened to learn that Preston McCracken, the regular field general, has received the physician’s approval to return to the fray. Young McCracken shall share the quarterback duties with Trenten “T.D.” Coleman, who has proven himself a capable leader in McCracken’s absence.
Speaking of the arrangement, Coach Cornelsen elucidated: “Our plan is… we’re going to allow him to play three, four series (in) game one, get the snap, get the handoff, just try to get back in some action. T.D.’s done a really good job while he was hurt and stepped in and has won games and moved the ball.”
The victorious eleven shall advance to meet either the Hillcrest or Parkview aggregation in the district semi-final contest the following week.
