The Fighting Highlanders football team is focusing on positives and preparation for this week’s game after a tough sectional loss to perennial powerhouse Upper St. Clair by a score of 28-21.

The Highlanders held a 21-7 lead before Upper St. Clair made its comeback. The winning touchdown was a punt return for a touchdown by the Panthers in the fourth quarter.

Senior Tyler Gurchak said the team was sure that special teams would win or lose the game

“We were told the game would be won or lost by special teams and it was,” Gurchak said.

Despite the tough outcome, the Highlanders still showed real promise for upcoming section games.

Senior Dre Howell said the team needs to stay focused for each game.

“We just have to try to go 1-0 every week,” Howell said.

The Highlanders cannot let this one loss hold them back, Gurchak said..

“Keep taking it game by game and focus. We can’t dwell on the past. We’ll just have to see them in playoffs,” Gurchak said.

The Highlanders face Moon on Friday in an away game.