Sports - High Schools

POSTED: Monday, Nov. 10, 2008

PREP FOOTBALL: Tuesday's games

VASHON ISLAND (6-4) AT MERIDIAN (5-5)

Time: Tuesday, Nov. 11, 4:30 p.m. Site: Civic Stadium

Pirates update: Vashon Island fell to Cascade Christian 38-14 last week to earn the Nisqually League No. 3 seed and a date with Meridian. The Pirates has put together a solid season, losing two early non-league contests to bigger schools before putting together string of wins that was eventually stopped by Orting. The Pirates are led by running back Nathan Betz, who had 159 yards and two scores against Cascade Christian.

Trojans update: Meridian had little trouble with Coupeville despite having to start backup quarterback Tait Slesk while cousin Zach Slesk sat out for disciplinary issues. Zach Slesk is expected back for the Vashon Island game, but the way Meridian played with Tait you get the feeling it might not matter which one starts. The Trojans have their eyes set on reaching state and they can do that with a win here.

Key to the game: Meridian needs to keep running the ball well. The Trojans offensive line dominated against Coupeville.

Player to watch: Meridian's BoDean Norris had his biggest game of the year last week, rushing for 149 yards.

LYNDEN CHRISTIAN (5-5) AT ORTING (9-1)

Time: Tuesday, Nov. 11, 7 p.m. Site: Sunset Chev Stadium, Sumner

Lyncs update: Lynden Christian found its running game last week and rolled up more than 200 yards in a 27-14 win on the road against King's. The other thing the Lyncs did in the win is not commit a turnover and that's something they will have to keep doing in the postseason. Lynden Christian still needs to be more consistent and can't get overconfident.

Cardinal update: Orting will be the best team Lynden Christian has faced so far this season. The Cardinals are ranked No. 6 in the state with their only loss coming against a very good Cascade Christian team. Orting beat Charles Wright 21-12 last week to earn a home game in the Class 1A Tri-District cross-over round. The Cardinals are led by quarterback Nick Wilkins who is a threat to run or pass.

Key to the game: Orting will be fired up and Lynden Christian can't give them any quick scores. Make them work for it.

Player to watch: Lynden Christian running back Niels Brisbane will shoulder the load in this contest for the Lyncs.