Riverton Parke looks to continue historic season

One step closer to the ultimate goal.

That is the mindset Riverton Parke veteran coach Bradley Sanders has coming into this week's Class A Sectional 45 semifinal against North Central (Farmersburg).

At 10-0, the Panthers know what is at stake -- a potential date with rival South Putnam next week for a sectional crown. 

However, Sanders admits his team is focused solely on the present, which includes another week of practice. 

"It feels great to have another week of practice. The goal was 1-0. We have worked hard to prepare for the post season and are glad to move on and have the opportunity to play another week," Sanders told The Parke County Post. 

In last week's 46-6 win over North Vermillion, Sanders was able to rest a few players and still got a solid performance out of his team. Offensively, the Panthers had three guys go over the century mark in yards and, as a team, Riverton Parke rushed for over 500 yards. Defensively, the Panthers held North Vermillion to six points, which marked the sixth consecutive time Riverton Parke has allowed six points or less. 

"Brody McConnell, Victor Shoopman and Sean Vester all played well. Once again we were led by our guys up front. Being able to plug in multiple guys in the back field and still execute says a lot about our O line," Sanders said. 

This week's opponent is one the Panthers did not see during the regular season. North Central (Farmersburg) improved to 7-3 after beating Covington, 28-26. The Thunderbirds average just over 30 points per game and have surrendered an average of 20 points per game. 

"North Central looks good. Coach Wheeler has them playing hard. They have a lot of good athletes and they like to play physically. The challenge to our players this week is to match their physicality. As usual, our number one goal is effort," Sanders said.