John Ware wasn’t at Lakeside as the injuries and losses piled up in the second half of last season.
But of course he knew about the challenges the Warriors faced when he became the head coach in February.
So Ware could not have been happier watching his team celebrate a 32-14 victory over the Arcadia Hornets in their season opener Friday night at Arcadia.
“I tell you man. It was as big a joy as I’ve had ever in coaching to watch those kids excited on the sideline after the game,” said Ware, who is in his 26th season as a coach. “You go through some stuff, and everybody does a little bit. They were so excited and that was fun.”
The Warriors avenged losses to Arcadia of 26-14 last year and 26-12 in 2022. It was also their first win since Week 4 of last season.
Ware said that because of the recent rain the field conditions were less than ideal.
“It was a nasty, muddy mess out there,” he said. “It was really bad. I think we only threw three passes.”
The conditions didn’t slow down a strong running game led by Ken’travion Miller and Taron Riley and a stellar effort by the offensive line.
Miller scored three rushing touchdowns. Riley scored two TDs, including a 50-yard punt return that gave Lakeside a 20-0 halftime lead.
Riley finished with 133 yards on 22 carries. Miller had 103 on 15. Brock Case completed four of five passes for 28 yards.
The Warriors extended the lead to 26-0 on Riley’s second touchdown run with about seven minutes to play.
The defense allowed only one touchdown as the Hornets scored on a fumble return. That was Lakeside’s line turnover.
Caleb Barber led the defense with seven tackles and a fumble recovery. Eric Jones had six tackles. Eli Santelices had five. Jamarion Evans, James Maxie and James Roberson had four apiece. De’Kyshiun Banks had an interception.
After Arcadia got within 12 late in the game, Miller scored his final touchdown with 1:45 left. He ran through a couple of Hornets near the goalline and pulled a couple into the end zone with him.
“We controlled the football and pretty much controlled the game,” Ware said. “We played pretty doggone good so we were pleased with that.”
Lakeside plays its home opener Friday against LaSalle. The Tigers fell to Delta Charter 36-6 in their season opener.