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By Levi Zimmerman
The Mineral Point football team faced a tough opponent in its opening game of the 2021 season in the Lake Mills L-Cats.
After defeating Lake Mills last year by a score of 44-36, the Pointers were on the losing end of a 23-10 mark Friday.
Both sides lost some big pieces on both sides of the ball, but Mineral Point was by far the more inexperienced team, especially on the line of scrimmage.
The first score for the L-Cats didn't come via touchdown or field goal, but rather a safety when Matthewson Broughton got into the backfield for a safety.
The visiting Pointers did strike early on their first drive when quarterback Joah Filardo passed to tailback Dominik McVay who sprinted down the sideline for a 50-yard touchdown.
Mineral Point also gained some momentum in the second quarter when Tanner Goninen picked off a Lake Mills pass.
Senior Bo Hanson showed off his special teams skills with a field goal.
Although the Pointers fell short Friday, Head Coach Andy Palzkill feels good about where the team is headed.
He stated, "Lake Mills is a very good football program, and their athletes are well coached. We are fortunate to have had the opportunity to play them in week one, as they were able to expose our weaknesses as a very inexperienced team."
Palzkill also highlighted several Pointers who showcased their skills on the gridiron.
"Although we struggled to be consistent on offense, I believe Dominik McVay showed his skill set very well. He is a dominant athlete who will continue to be a focal point for us offensively. On the defensive side of the ball, I was impressed with Bo Hanson who demonstrates tremendous leadership and toughness for our team. I also thought Will Schute, Tarrin Riley, and Jaiden Galle played great football for us in their first varsity starts," said Palzkill.
Mineral Point will now look forward to week two and a matchup with the Dodgeville Dodgers who won their opening game against Viroqua.
"Dodgeville had a very nice win last week, and anytime someone scores 40 points you have to take a close look at what they are doing offensively. They will also give us a different look defensively than we have seen this year, and we will have to get accustomed to their defensive game plan. I expect a great competition on Thursday night," Palzkill said.
The Pointers and Dodgers will square off Thursday, Aug. 26 at 7:00 p.m in Dodgeville.