North Webster Head Coach Christopher Wilson saw some positive things in the Knights’ season-opening loss to the Haynesville Golden Tornado Friday night at Baucom-Farrar Stadium.
But his teams’ lack of experience showed in the 38-0 loss to the traditional Class 1A powerhouse.
North Webster has just one returning starter on offense.
“Honestly we ran the ball at will,” Wilson said. “We did a great job running the football. It’s kind of one of those things where your inexperience shows up.
“We have six sophomores starting on offense. On offense we would have a good play. We would start sustaining a drive then we’d ruin it with a penalty.”
The Knights also made some other mistakes.
“We blocked our own punt tonight, making young mistakes,” Wilson said. “A tipped ball goes for a touchdown.
“Any 50/50 play that happened tonight went Haynesville’s way. That’s what happens when you have a quality program. We have to learn how to make those plays and swing that pendulum on our side when those 50/50 plays come about.”
Haynesville is coming off a 13-1 season. The Tors’ only loss was to South Plaquemines in the non-select Division IV championship game. Haynesville was ranked No. 1 in the LSWA Class 1A preseason poll.
“I’m just proud of the way the boys played,” Wilson said. “I know the scoreboard doesn’t reflect it. The boys came out. They had a good week of practice.
“Our inexperience has to catch up a little bit faster. These guys just have to learn to play the games on Friday nights when it’s moving faster.”
North Webster is at home again Friday against North Caddo. The Titans lost to Bossier 63-25 in their opener.