After defeating two of the top teams in the region, the Panthers were defeated by the Trinity Lions in last Friday’s Homecoming game.
“I think we are going to take this loss and come back stronger,” senior Zach Berger said. “I don’t think it’s really going to affect us overall.”
I think we are going to take this loss and come back stronger.”
— senior Zach Berger
Starr’s Mill attempted to control the clock with the run game but could not overcome the miscues. The Panthers had possession of the ball for most of the game, rushing 32 times for 122 yards. However, giving up an easy touchdown on a fumble recovery and two missed scoring opportunities helped the Lions secure the win.
“Trinity is a lot like us and we talked about it and we prepared and felt we did everything we needed to do,” head coach Chad Phillips said. “In the game we gave an easy touchdown on a fumble scoop and score and we missed two wide open receivers. That’s three touchdowns that could’ve swung our way, and then we missed two field goals.”
Trinity now leads the region at 3-0. Starr’s Mill moves to second in the region with a 2-1 record. The Panthers face Fayette County (1-2), Riverdale (0-4), and North Clayton (2-2) next. The Lions have yet to face Troup County and LaGrange.
“Fortunately with beating LaGrange and Troup, we really have put ourselves in a great situation,” Phillips said.
During halftime, the Homecoming court winners were announced. For the freshmen class, Emily Benson and Jacob Cochran were crowned Lady and Lord. For the sophomore class, Lilly Hynson and James Bender were crowned Duchess and Duke. For the junior class, Claire Manetti and Gavin Vu were crowned Princess and Prince. Tani Alofe and class treasurer Ishan Kasaju were crowned Queen and King for the class of 2024.
Alofe’s crowning was her second in a row after being on the court all four years of high school.
“It feels really good and I’m really grateful that people voted for me,” Alofe said. “It’s been a really good experience the past few years.”
Starr’s Mill travels to Fayette County High School on October 7 for a 7:30 p.m. kickoff. The Tigers are coming off a 47-3 loss to Whitewater where they did not score until the final quarter.