The Selma Times-Journal

It has been 11 years since the Meadowview Trojans won or played host to a playoff game.

That kind of drought tends to do things to a team’s desire. The Trojans are trying not to let what’s at stake against Escambia Academy affect what they do this week.

“We approached this week like we have all year – punch in Monday and work hard,” coach Rick Jackson said. “We talked about having to prepare leading up to the game. Excitement is high around the school.”

“Black Hat Pride” has probably not been this strong in a long time. It may be hard to see at Wasden Field with all the fans encouraged to wear black to the game.

The Trojans (7-3) have a history with Escambia that goes back to 2005 when they gave the Cougars (4-5) their first region loss in two years.

Although the two are now in different regions, the rivalry stands.

Both teams come into the game at different paces.

Escambia has won four of its last six games after losing the first three.

Meadowview has lost three of its last five.

But that’s out of mind now that the real season has started.

“With the senior leadership we’ve had all year, we’ll be ready to play Friday night at 7,” Jackson said.