First games of the season are never easy - even when a record-breaking crowd is watching. The PHS Varsity Highlander Football team lost a close one to the Healdsburg Greyhounds, 20 - 17 last night at Witter Field.
The game started like a splash of cold water in the face, as the Greyhounds ran back the kick-off for a touchdown, point-after and a 7-0 lead. The Greyhounds were to go on and score another touchdown on another run back; however they missed the point-after. 13-points for the 'Hounds.
The Highlanders got on the board with a cross field pass from Spencer Kim to Andy Slabaugh for a touchdown. Ale Choida's point-after was successful and the Highlanders had 7 points. Later in the first half Ale Choida scored a 3-point field goal, giving the home team 10 points. The score at half time was 13 - 10, Greyhounds.
William Meredith came out in the second half and gave Healdsburg a taste of its own medicine. He ran the kick-off back for a touchdown. Ale Choida again made the point after and the Highlanders had the lead, 17 - 13.
However, a "W" was not to be for the Highlanders. The Greyhounds made a slow drive and scored another, and final, touchdown. Score - 20 - 17.
The PHS JV team won their season opener by a score of 34 - 0.
So what do you do when you've lost a close game? Pick yourself up, move on and get ready for the next game. And that is exactly what the PHS Highlanders are doing.
Next Friday Night Football will be Friday, August 31st at Witter Field; JV game - 4 pm, Varsity - 7 pm. The opponent is Moreau Catholic who will also be looking for their first win.
The team, coaches, spirit groups all thank the community for coming out and making such a strong showing (see attached vid). The parents from last year's seniors were there, the Boosters did a great job and everyone had a great time. The Highlanders are not just the school's team; they are the community's team.
We hope you will come out August 31st for more FRIDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL!
