Panther football drops sixth straight

The Saratoga Panther football (0-5, 0-6) squad continues to improve, head coach Scott Bokelman said. But the Panthers’ efforts were not enough to get it done in their 6-24 loss against the Burlington Huskies.

“It’s the same old story,” Bokelman recalled of Friday’s afternoon matchup. The Panthers are still searching for their first win of the season.

However, Bokelman said he is seeing a lot of improvement in his players. They were able to move the ball on the ground and in the air against a tough Husky defense. Thatcher Spiering threw his second touchdown pass in as many games, and could have had another long pass to his name if the receiver did not drop the ball.

Additionally, Bokelman said they were able to pull off a long run, and were “one cut” away from a touchdown. He said having a consistent offense (in positions) every week has helped. “We are keeping guys in the same spot, and it’s starting to pay off,” Bokelman said.

Defensively, Bokelman still wants more out of his team. He said his team gave up too many big plays to the Huskies, despite allowing a season-low 24 points.

However, the lack of depth continues to hurt the Panthers on the field. Injuries continue to plague the Panthers late in the season. Bokelman said his team is beat up and they are scrambling to fill spots on both sides of the ball.

Bokelman said he had five freshman playing for the Panthers last game. While the younger players are still struggling to find their feet on the varsity playing field, he is excited to have them get experience as they progress through their high school career.

Despite the having a “0” in the win column, Bokelman said his players continue to maintain a positive attitude in games and practices. The Panthers will continue to build on this season, which will hopefully transition towards a successful program in the future.

“We are looking to finish out the season,” Bokelman said. “We want everyone to keep playing hard and keep everyone enthused. As a coach, I just want to make sure these kids are having fun, because that’s what it is all about.”

The Panthers will host the Wind River Cougars (2-3, 2-4) this Friday Saratoga’s homecoming and senior night game. With a large crowd expected, Bokelman said anything can happen against the Cougars.

“We have a chance against (Wind River),” he said. “We just have to play hard and hang in there with them. It’s our homecoming game, so I expect my guys will put in a greater effort.”

The Panthers take on Wind River at 6 p.m., Friday, at Saratoga High School football field.