Clarkson/Leigh wins shootout at Pender

The Clarkson/Leigh Patriots opened up the season with an impressive 58-50 win at Pender Friday night.

Both teams scored 14 first quarter points. The Pendragons won the second quarter 14-12 to go up 28-26 at halftime.

Clarkson/Leigh outscored Pender 20-8 in the third quarter to lead 46-36 at the end of three.

The Pendragons notched 14 fourth quarter points compared to 12 for the Patriots.

Quarterback Bradley Bunner was a man amongst boys as he had 284 yards on 24 carries, and scored 8, yes 8, touchdowns. Hector Mendoza added 51 yards on 4 carries.

Head Coach Jim Clarkson says Bunner, the only returning starter from last year, had a heck of a game. "You know we got a long way to go. There's a lot of sloppiness going on, but he's a heck of a player, and the kids kind of rally around him. And our guys are coming along, hopefully we can keep developing and learn something from this, and get better throughout the year we hope."

Bunner added 21 tackles while Paxten Indra and Jacob Gall added 7 each.

Clarkson/Leigh totaled 400 yards of offense while giving up 456.

I must say I knew Bunner was good, but I didn't know he was this good.

What an outstanding performance from that young man.

The Patriots (1-0) host Guardian Angels Central Catholic (1-0) Friday night.

The Bluejays defeated Nebraska Christian 28-14 at home this past Friday night.

Both teams lost a lot from last year, and neither team is expected to be as good this year as they were last year.

Clarkson/Leigh didn't really miss a beat against Pender though.

If anything, the Patriots picked up right where they left off from last season.

Clarkson/Leigh certainly did a lot of nice things Friday night, but they're going to have to play really well again to beat GACC.

The Bluejays appear to be strong on both sides of the ball. I would say their defense is better than the Patriots', but I would say Clarkson/Leigh is stronger on offense.

It should be a good game, and this is the Patriots' chance to knock off a powerhouse.

Clarkson/Leigh has to take care of the ball and create some turnovers.

Football is a game of momentum, and momentum could certainly change hands in this game many times.

This game being in Leigh really helps the Patriots I think. It's usually easier to win at home than on the road so the game being at home should be to Clarkson/Leigh's benefit.

It would be a huge deal for the Patriots to knock off the Bluejays, and I think Clarkson/Leigh is certainly capable of getting the job done.