The challenge this week for Lakeside players was to finish.
After a 42-0 win, it looks like they did a pretty good job, but head coach Joey Pesses knows his team can still be better.
“We came out smoking,” Pesses said. “We started off in a blaze of glory I guess you could say. We had a kick return and a touchdown run called back, but despite that we still got out to a 21-0 lead in the blink of an eye.”
It was a welcomed change for a team that has started slow a few times this year.
The Warriors were efficient offensively, rushing for 240 yards on the ground and passing for 63 on just five attempts. It marks the second time this season Lakeside has topped the 40 point mark.
“I want us to learn how to play 48 minutes,” Pesses said. “In the first half we came out firing and our effort was up. In the second half we relaxed a little and that upset me because I want them to learn how to finish a game.
Offensively, I saw our offensive line blocking better at the point of contact. They did a better job of finishing and our backs ran hard. Thomas at quarterback gives us another element also.”
Defensively it was a week of real improvement as the Warriors recorded their first shutout of the season.
Pesses said the key to the excellent defensive play was discipline.
“The guys really started picking up what we were trying to do on defense Wednesday,” Pesses said. “It resulted in an interception returned for a touchdown for us. The guys played the scheme to perfection. I was proud of their effort.”
Thomas Lambert threw a 53 yard touchdown and ran for 87 yards and two touchdowns to lead the Warrior offense. Justin McCready ran eight times for 71 yards. Frankie Miles had two catches for 63 yards and a touchdown. Frankie Chanler returned an interception for a touchdown and Ahmad Bishop returned a punt 60 yards to the house.
The Warriors’ record improves to 2-3 with the win.
The next game for the Warriors will be a home date with the Homer Pelicans starting at 7 p.m. in Sibley.