Before an estimated crowd of 350 people Munroe hosted Liberty County in Spring Football Classic game Thursday at Greensboro’s West Gadsden Field.
Facing a bigger, deeper team the Bobcats showed some adhesiveness in a 14-0 loss. Those 14 points were scored early by the visiting Bulldogs when Caleb Peddie picked up a Munroe fumble in the first quarter and fought his way 20 yards for a touchdown and Destin Fletcher closed out a 65 yard drive with a 1-yard, second quarter, six-point dive.
A 32-yard Brady Peddie to Joseph Finuff set up the second touchdown. Crisanta Rangel had conversion kicks after both scores for Liberty. Munroe had an 86-yard scoring run by Josh Glynn nullified by a penalty after the first Bulldog touchdown that may have changed the game’s whole complexion.
“That play could have changed the outcome of the game.” Bobcat head coach Joseph Gaddy said. “But it was our mistake and it was something we have to work on.”
It was Gaddy’s first foray into a Munroe football encounter after taking over the program this winter.
“Overall the coaching staff was pleased with our effort, but not satisfied with the game results.” Gaddy continued. “We played pretty good on defense but know we have to work on our offense.”
The Bobcats did play hard on defense holding the Bulldogs at bay after those two early touchdowns. Michael Starling forced a Liberty fumble and Nathan Bot had an interception to thwart Bulldog drives and Jaiden Briggs and Colin Harbin were in on at least 10 tackles each keeping the visitors from getting to the flanks.
“All in all it was good to compete against a strong opponent like Liberty County,” Gaddy said. “A team like that helps you see what progress you’ve made and what things you need to work on.”
“It’s been a positive spring for the coaching staff from the effort of the players, and the support we’ve received from school staff, parents, and fans. We will be working on things this summer and look forward to next season’s schedule,” Gaddy concluded.
Practice for that schedule will begin July 29. Munroe’s next game action will be August 17 when they host Sneads in a Pre-season Classic at Corry Field.
Joe Ferolito
sports@prioritynews.net