Page Collapses in Regular-Season Finale, Shifts Focus to Playoffs

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Story by EMILY R. WEST | Photos by DOUG HOSLER

Page High School Charles Rathbone had one question for his team Friday night as he stood in the center of their huddle after the game.

“What are you going to do in the face of adversity?” he asked.

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The Patriots had their fair share, ending their regular season game without a score on the board against Marshall County. The Tigers’ offense ravaged Page, making the game 51-0 in the final seconds.

“This is one small time in your life you will face adversity,” he said. “This game? It will not define who we are. It will not be our memory this season. Don’t let this be your defining point. Last year’s team? They let their point be against Marshall County. So seniors, that’s your next challenge – are we going to rise up and get ready?”

In order to win next week at their home playoff game against East Hamilton, Page will have to step it up – both on offense and defense.

The Patriots struggled with its offense all night, posting only 30 total yards. Page only had two first downs the entire game, but managed to hang on to the ball for nearly 20 minutes. Defensively, Page had its hands full with Marshall County’s explosive rushing and passing attack. The Tigers posted 446 total yards.

This time last year, Page struggled after a loss against the Tigers. In going to watch the game film tomorrow, Rathbone said he would to pinpoint the areas they could improve. He said overall he was proud of his team, noting they had experienced a few players out for the season. But despite the loss, the team pressed on.

He hoped they could continue to find the resiliency in spite of loss.

“We may play Marshall County again,” he said. “And I would rather beat them the second time than the first time.”

Emily West covers the city of Franklin, education and high school football for the Franklin Home Page. Contact her at [email protected]. Follow her on Twitter via @emwest22.