by Kenny Anton
Hernando Sun Reporter
If their 7 – 4 record last year was any indication, the Hernando High School Leopards football team seemed poised to sprint effortlessly into the postseason. Their opening game loss against the Lake Gibson Braves, however, proved they have a little bit of work to do to make that happen. The game also gave the coaching staff, led by head coach Robert Kazmier, some good insight into what refinements are needed in order to make the Leopards the well-oiled winning machine they have the potential to be.
After being rained out for last weeks’ Kickoff Classic, the Leopards took the field for the first time last night to host and face off against the Braves. Unfortunately, the missed opportunity to knock the dust off really showed throughout the night.
Plagued by fumbles and facing an opponent which was able to deny nearly every attempt to gain yards, the Leopards offense wasn’t able to score a single point.
The night was not without some stellar plays from the home team. In the first quarter, a Braves field goal attempt was blocked by the Leopards which resulted in turnover. One of the Leopards longest gains came in the second quarter courtesy of #3, RB Shavaris McNair.
Ultimately the Leopards were shut out with a final score of 41-0. Was this devastating loss indicative of the season to come? Or was this merely the result of facing off against one of the best 6A programs around? With all hope, the coaching staff can take the lessons from this loss and close some of the offensive gaps, retool the season plan and get the Leopards on the path to the postseason.
