The varsity football team was victorious in its first game of the season on Friday, as they won the “The Battle of 51” against Brashear, 47-17. 

The defense and offense both were able to control the game.  

“We controlled the tempo of the whole game very well. We won the turnover battle by getting more first downs and not fumbling the ball as much as Brashear,” junior Keith Mincin said. 

Mincin, a linebacker, stopped Brashear with ease as he had 10 tackles, two which were for a loss of yards. Mincin also had two interceptions with 80 return yards, and one was converted for a pick six. 

Mincin also contributed on offense with by catching a 40-yard touchdown pass. 

Junior running back Andrew Sharp had four touchdowns, with one of them being a kick return, while running for 104 yards and netting 76 receiving yards. He also had four tackles and a fumble recovery.

Sharp said it was a team effort.

“If it was not for our offensive line,” he said, “there was no way I would have had that big of a game.”

Sharp was also nominated for WPIAL offensive player of the week. 

“It’s really cool being nominated for such an award,” he said. “But I still want more out of the team.”

There are still some holes in the Highlanders’ style of play, Mincin said.

“We need to clean up some penalties for the big game this week,” Mincin said. 

The momentum and confidence levels are high right now and the Highlanders are excited to get back on the field against Thomas Jefferson this Friday at home.