By Mark Robinson
Greenbrier East’s football team travelled to James Monroe High School Friday, Aug. 26, still looking to see how to fill some big holes created when graduating seniors left in 2015. That search continues, as the Spartans fell to the Cavaliers 34-6.
Monroe quarterback Evan Beasley looked at ease and in control, as he ran an offense that gained yards in the air and on the ground. Doubling up as a defensive back, Beasley and teammate Colton Bradley did a good job covering the Spartan receivers. Bradley had a long interception return for a touchdown, on an overthrown ball from Spartan QB Devin Persinger to tight end Joey Powell.
As in any team game, what is seen in overall output doesn’t reflect every part of the team. Greenbrier East has talent at skill positions,but it takes time to see that, as people learn player coordination and timing. The play of both lines, offense and defense, is crucial, and they will take time to develop. Quarterback Persinger will need good line play; his talents appear to lie more in setting up and passing, than in footwork and eluding tacklers.
The Spartans host Woodrow Wilson Friday night, Sept. 2. On Sept. 9 they host Preston High School.
