Saturday showdown … Knights battle for AFL crown

    Beginning in the early July heat and continuing through the freezing rain of late October, their quest comes down to one game.
    The Houlton Knights’ football team takes on the Madawaska Mustangs for bragging rights and the championship of the 2009 Aroostook Football League. The top-seeded Knights have recorded a perfect 6-0 season and will have the opportunity to add more glory to this remarkable season.
    Madawaska (4-2) disposed of Caribou in the semifinal on Monday night to earn the right to face the Knights on Saturday at 1 p.m. in the Shiretown at Community Park.
    In previous meetings this season, the Knights bested the Mustangs 20-12 and 28-12. Both games were physical.
Pioneer Times file photos
HARDNOSED – The Houlton Knights will have to play hardnosed football on Saturday if they expect to capture the Aroostook Football League title against Madawaska. In the left photo, Chris Taylor, No. 10, bulls his way through defense, while at right,  Zack Mailloux, No. 59 and Tim Chase, No. 20 get ready to make a tackle on their opponent.
    “They are a well coached and athletic team,” said Knights’ head coach Brian Reynolds. “They (Madawaska) have had our number for a few seasons, but I know I won’t need to dwell on motivation for this game. We just need to stay focused and to execute the way we are capable for four quarters.”
    Seniors Chris Ruth, John Silliboy, Chris Taylor, Caleb Jewell, Kyle Kramer, Justin Ramsey and Zack Mailloux know what is expected of them.
    “All they can do now is to leave it all on the field,” said Reynolds. “These kids have shown leadership and sacrifice to get here.”
    The Knights have a stingy defense, allowing only 162 yards, while averaging over 320 yards on offense.
    They are not afraid to throw the ball completing over 63 percent of their passes.
    The Knights’ ability to mix up the offense with punishing inside running and blazing speed to the outside, makes them a difficult team to defend. Their depth chart is deep with underclassmen.
    Juniors Caleb Black and Jesse DaEira will figure strongly in coach Reynolds’ offensive scheme. Receivers Ruth and Kramer are a constant threat when quarterback Taylor looks down field. If Reynolds’ veteran linemen Ramsey, Dan Toby and John Silliboy hold their own, it could be a long day for the Mustangs.
    Special teams could make the difference. Both the Knights and Mustangs make few mistakes.
    The Mustangs’ defense is frugal allowing the second least points in the league. Their offense grinds out many yards and is capable of putting a lot of points on the board.
    “Madawaska is a good team,” said Reynolds. We can’t take them lightly. It should be quite a battle. Our staff is well aware of the capabilities of the Mustangs and knows how to make the adjustments.”
    In an ironic twist, senior Knights’ captain Ruth won a championship with the Mustangs. He would love to end his high school career as a winner, as a Knight.
    Game time weather forecast calls for cloudy conditions and a 20 percent chance of rain with temperatures in the mid 50s.