RallyNorth.net

Rangers get attitude adjustment

Thursday, October, 04 By Hector Longo
Staff writer

Beating Belchertown is one thing, but Methuen High football players hit the halls this week with a bit more pep in their step.

Their mammoth Merrimack Valley Conference losing skid is a thing of the past thanks to a dominating 28-7 win over Haverhill.

"You notice the difference just walking the halls," said senior receiver David Koerner, the hero in last week's win with eight catches for 151 yards and two touchdowns. "We're getting a lot of congratulations, and everyone seems to be behind us."

Even first-year coach Pat Graham was a bit impressed as his club returned to work this week with that dubious 33-game streak a distant memory.

"Around the school, there's been a good buzz," said Graham. "But to me, that's what we're supposed to do. Now let's go out and get another one."

Methuen, now 2-2 overall and 1-1 in the MVC, has a shot at making it two straight tonight at Nicholson Stadium against 3-1 (1-1 MVC) Tewksbury. The Redmen are coming off a 28-6 loss to Chelmsford.

"To get to 3-2, a winning record and second-place in the MVC would be huge," said Koerner, who has 14 catches for 233 yards in the four games.

Is it that farfetched to talk about titles and the Rangers in the same sentence?

Probably.

But right now, with Mike Bartlett (37 carries, 200 yards) and the running game finding its best stride and Matt Bartlett settling in at quarterback, the Rangers can at least enjoy the role of sleeper, right?

"Coach has us thinking about winning, one at a time, and running the table," said Koerner. "People won't think of us as much, and I don't blame them. Now we just have to prove them wrong."