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On a night that seemed that the Eagles may get off to a good start when the captains from Onamia mistakenly made the decision to kick off after we had deferred to the second half which meant we were to receive the ball first and also get the ball again first in the second half diminished quickly.

Again the Eagles racked up over 300 yards in total offense. But unfortunately weren't able to convert inside the red zone five times and inside the 10 yard line twice and couldn't come away with any points.

Onamia got off to a quick start and just when things seemed to be getting out of control the Eagles struck back quickly with a long kick off return for a touchdown with some very good blocking leading the way.

Defensively in the first half the Eagles couldn't find an answer to Onamia's running game and went into half time down 24 to 8. The boys came out in the second half and outscored Onamia 12 to 8 but the comeback came up on the short end of a 20-32 final score.

Tensions were high as the Northland football players, coaches and a few graduated seniors from last year stood on the sidelines Friday, awaiting the start of the game. September 18 was a game that the Eagles had marked on the calendar since last year.

Everything seemed right, The fall football weather arrived and the energy was high on a brisk September night under the lights in Remer. It was the Northland Eagles against their rival from the east, the Hill City Hornets. The Eagles started strong on defense and recovered a fumble on the very first Hornets play from the line of scrimmage to start the game. The offense then took advantage of the opportunity and quickly cashed in on their first touchdown of the night and never looked back.

Offensively the team racked up well over 500 yards in total offense. The offensive controlled the line of scrimmage creating holes that established the running game and provided wide receivers and quarterback to scamper through all night long for huge gains. The passing game also found it's stride with numerous receptions that went for big yardage.

Defensively the Eagles were almost perfect on the night where they recovered two fumbles and intercepted the ball twice. The Eagle's played aggressive defense and on most plays two, three, and even four players were involved in taking the ball carrier to the ground.

Finally, after at least a seven year drought the Hwy. 200 traveling trophy between the two rivals has returned to Northland! As the clock ticked down, the boys found themselves on top 60-6.

The coaching staff praised the boys on their best effort of the season. Not just because of the score, but because they limited the small mistakes that have hurt them in previous games. The coaches agreed it was a good win and a confidence builder for the boys showing them that discipline, execution, and limiting the small mistakes is the key to success.

Next week the Eagles will be on the road to face the Nevis Tigers.

Just a reminder to the fans that the October 2 game against Isle at home is scheduled for a 6 p.m. kickoff. The Eagles will also be celebrating homecoming and parents night.[[In-content Ad]]

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