Central Wildcats to Host Woodlawn Friday Night

CENTRAL — Last Friday night, the Central Wildcats held their own against the No. 1-ranked St. Thomas More Cougars.  At the beginning of the 4th quarter, Central was down only 10-0 and still in the game.  Ultimately, the Cougars’ experience wore the Wildcats down. (For Central City News photos of the Central-St. Thomas More game, go to www.centralcitynews.smugmug.com)

STM’s all-senior defense kept the Wildcats’ offense in check.  Central’s offense was playing four sophomores.

Experience was probably the key to St. Thomas More’s 24-0 victory, Central coach Doug Dotson said.  Nevertheless, Dotson was pleased with many aspects of Central’s performance.

“We were in a playoff atmosphere at their house and facing one of the best teams in the state,” he said.  Dotson praised his defense, especially Joey Jarreau who had 15 tackles and two sacks from the defensive tackle position.

Also worth noting was the performance of Tony Ragusa, who had 14 tackles, and Logan Metcalfe, who courageously played with a separated shoulder.

This Friday night, Central will host the Woodlawn Panthers at Wildcat Stadium, beginning at 7 p.m.  “This is a very talented Woodlawn team with quick strike capability.  They have a quarterback who can run or throw and good wide receivers.  They have a veteran coaching staff and are a well-coached team.  They’re definitely a quality opponent, and we’ll have to play our best game.”

“Playing at home will be a big plus for us, assuming the Wildcat fans show up and we own the place,” he said.  “We have to control their offense and prevent the big play.  Meanwhile, we are counting on our guys such as Gary Triplett, Devon Gales, and Lamonte Janeau to come through with the big play themselves.”