DRAFFENVILLE – With two scrimmages behind them, the Marshals are ready to open their season Tuesday at Paducah Tilghman’s Jetton field in a JV, Varsity match that begins at 5:30.
Their first scrimmage was at Owensboro which Coach Andrew Pagel said is always a good scrimmage because their program mirrors the Marshals, both good programs and regional contenders most years. Pagel said the scrimmage was very scripted, playing quarters and stopping the clock.
“We had a line-up in mind and had to find some adjustments”, Pagel said. “The kids couldn’t get in a rhythm but we came away with some bright spots but not the momentum we needed.”
Thursday, the Marshals played their second pre-season scrimmage at Trigg County, a team Pagel feels will make a lot of noise in Region 2 this year.
“They’re a big, physical team”, Pagel said. “We found our offense in the second half and finished stronger in that game, so our momentum is going in the right direction.”
Nine seniors lead this year’s team and Pagel stated he has four players that feel new, but are just back and better than ever, two being Caleb McNeely who was out with an injury and Nate Moore who had an early season injury last year.
“We know what our line-up with be Tuesday night”, Pagel said. “A game or two in we may make some adjustments. Five out of the front six can play two or three spots but we still need to nail it down on defense and start clicking with our new four-four-two system. A more balance, simplified scheme that will suit us better with our personnel.”
Pagel expects Calloway County to be strong this season, Graves County will be right there as well as McCracken County, along with the Marshals as Region 1 contenders. Calloway won the 2nd District and 1st Region Tournaments last season, falling to Henderson County in the first round of the State Tournament.
The 2016 team captains Dawson Jolley and Daniel Lepore. Assistant Coaches are Bryan Blevins and Donnie Heath.
To view the 2016 Marshals schedule CLICK HERE
