The Struthers football team played Poland at Poland’s field on Friday, October 20th.
This was the big rivalry game of the year and the Struthers football team’s last regular game of the season.
This was the biggest game of the year with the huge turn out of fans from both Poland and Struthers all coming to support. Both teams were tied throughout the entire game which led to the game going into overtime. In overtime, Poland scored and made a field goal which made the score 28-21. When Struthers got the ball, they scored, but instead of kicking a field goal to tie, they ran the ball which didn’t end in their favor. Struthers ended up losing 27-28.
The loss strongly impacted Struthers, but it hit Struthers football seniors even harder.
“It affected a lot of us but the seniors specifically were affected by it the most. It was our first time losing to Poland, so it really hurt to watch,” says senior Christian Pascarella.
But the cheering and support from the fans never gave way. The atmosphere of the game was always lit with excitement. Both schools’ student sections were loud and full of energy which made the game so thrilling.
For Struthers, the student section’s support and encouragement was always there to bring their school closer together.
“There was definitely enough school spirit.. With everyone showing up at the game and having the pep rally and decorating the school helps not just the football team, but everyone coming together as one,” says Senior Class President Morgan Minno.
Another big aspect of the game was the cheerleaders. The cheerleaders worked to bring up the team and fans spirits the entire game. With their different cheers, jumps, and celebrations they made the game more exciting and fun. Even with the cold weather, they were still able to keep us engaged in the game.
There were many ways that the cheerleaders got ready and supported Struthers football team.
“By making signs, decorating the school and dedicating it to the football players also by getting people in the school involved. Also when we cheer we try to encourage everyone to cheer and chant with us. Also, in the fourth quarter, we always go to the student section and get hype with them,” says cheer co-captain Taiya Baraka.
Overall, both teams came to compete and the fans came to cheer them on. With the rivalry between Struthers and Poland, it gets Struthers excited for the game every year and both sides can’t wait to play each other again. They’re excited for the opportunity of getting to play them again in the semi- finals.
