Single-Wing Ithaca (8-1) Host Meridian (6-3)

Single-Wing Ithaca (8-1) Host Meridian (6-3)

========================================

Division 6, Region 2, District 1


Meridian (6-3) at Ithaca (8-1)


Laingsburg (6-3) at Clare (8-1)


Meridian's first-round opponent on Friday is very familiar to coach Paul Reid and the Mustangs in the playoffs.


Meridian played Ithaca in the postseason in both 2003 and 2004, going 1-1. Friday's kickoff is at 7 p.m.


"We've played them twice in playoffs, one successful and one unsuccessful," Reid said. "I was just telling the (players), everybody's 0-0. Let's lay it on the line and see what you've got."


The Mustangs missed out on a share of the Jack Pine Conference title with Friday's 14-13 loss at Clare. But Reid is pleased with how his team is playing.


"I like how they're playing. Even though we're coming off a loss, the slate's clean," he said.


Reid said Ithaca, coached by Terry Hessbrook, runs an offense that's a variation of the single wing.


"They're about the only team around that runs this offense," he said. "They'll be in shotgun formation with four wide receivers. I am anxious to see film on them."


Ithaca is ranked seventh in Division 6 and has lost only to undefeated and second-ranked St. Charles. The Yellowjackets beat one playoff team in Merrill.


If the Mustangs beat Ithaca, they could get another shot at top seed Clare, which has won eight in a row and hosts Laingsburg on Friday at 7 p.m.


Tickets for the Meridian-Ithaca game are on sale starting Tuesday from 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Meridian main office. Tickets are $5.

================================================

Midland Daily News - 124 South McDonald Street - Midland, MI 48640