Week 13 preview - Semifinal round

Game of the Week

Naselle vs. Napavine, 4 pm, Friday, Tacoma Dome, State 2B playoffs, semifinal round

History anyone? The Comets (8-4) made it last week and look to make some more on Friday when they face off against Napavine (10-2) in the state semifinals at the Tacoma Dome.
Last week the Comets battle cry was "To the Dome!" This week perhaps it will be "To the Finals!" as a win will put Naselle into the title game for the first time. In the late 1960s, before a state playoff system was implemented the Comets were voted state champs in back-to-back years. Last year the Comets made it to a school best quarterfinal finish. This year Naselle has been setting a new school best every week.
Standing in their way is the Napavine Tigers, who have won 9 straight, most recently a 41-34 win over rival Adna who beat them 41-14 earlier in the season (they haven't lost since). The Tigers have scored twice as many points as they have given up on the season, averaging 34 PPG while giving up an average of 21 PPG. However, the Comets faced a similar task last week against a Valley team that came into the match-up undefeated, scoring many and giving up few and the Comets were able to turn the tables on them. The Tigers played in a shoot-out last week in a game that featured over 800 total yards of offense and only 25 yards in penalties. The TIgers leading offensive player in that game was running back Connor Craft who ran for 125 yards and three TDs. Tigers QB Marty Cozart also ran for 82 yards and threw for another 145.
The Comets multi-pronged offensive attack of Austin Burkhalter, Nick Hines, Tony Fletcher and Alan Erickson is tough for any team to shut down and is responsible for Naselle's powerful ground game (and sometimes surprising air attack as well). Despite a couple of late-game mistakes that led to 10 points for the Vikings, the Comets played almost the entire second half with a two TD lead.

You can read more previews on other sites:
Chinook Observer HERE
The Longview Daily News HERE and HERE which actually gives a pretty good plug for our football blog
The Centralia Chronicle HERE

Having the game time early on Friday, especially on the day after a holiday, may pose some problems for those planning on going to the game, but the trip is well worth it! last year, once again Naselle had the most fans at the game in Tumwater last week and it would be great to see a large contingent bringing Comet Pride to the Dome!

Check back on Saturday to find a photo gallery from the game, player blog posts and a game recap