The rivalry with Dallastown has always been something special for the Lions and Friday night was another chapter, with a lot on the line once again.
"We knew points would be at a premium and that we were going to have to lean heavily on our defense," said Lions coach Jesse Shay.
Shay was spot on in his prediction and Red Lion's defense was the difference holding Wildcats star Nyzair Smith to less than 70 yards and the Lions came away with a 17-10 victory, earning a share of the YAIAA Division I title in the process.
"Our defense was lights out. We had a lot of hats on the ball all the time," Shay said.
Of course, anytime the two teams face each other it's special and Friday was no exception, despite less than ideal weather.
"It was freezing. There was a chance of a downpour at any moment and the stands were packed," said Shay. "Both teams fought hard. It was everything that's right about high school athletics."
Red Lion earned the No. 5 seed in the District 3 Class 6A playoffs and will travel to traditional power Wilson on Friday. Although the Bulldogs may not have been as dominating as in years past, Shay was quick to say, it is still Wilson - at home.
"They are still really good," he said. "We talk all the time about trying to elevate our program and this is a great opportunity. I love our kids. We have a tenacity about us. I'll take my chances with our guys."
