Senior duo wants to help Tigers avenge last year’s season-opening loss to Heavener

Last year, the Central Tigers suffered a seasonopening 23-14 loss to the Heavener Wolves in the home opener at Tiger Stadium. Two seniors want to see the Tigers avenge that loss tonight when the same two teams meet in this season’s opener at 7 tonight at Heavener’s Harvey Stadium.

“I’m thinking about winning,” Central senior quarterback/H-back Braxin Goodson said. “Last year, we didn’t look too good against them. This year, I think we can pull it (beating Heavener) off. I’m looking forward to it.”

“I’m just thinking how their offense is going to hold up against us,” Central senior defensive lineman Mason Blalock said. “Our defensive line is looking pretty good. I’m looking forward to it.”

This season, Central coach Jeremy Thompson isn’t having Goodson settle in at the quarterback position as the veteran coach had the junior do last season. This year, Thompson is having Goodson move around so that his athleticism can be taken full advantage of when the Tigers go on offense, which is just fine with Goodson.

“I like playing different positions,” Goodson said. “It gives us a different look. It also keeps me entertained because it’s not as boring as staying in one spot.”

Although Blalock mostly plays along the defensive line, he will see time among the offensive lineman, too. Thus, the senior has to get ready to do both duties when called upon.

“It’s always something different,” Blalock said. “When you go on offense, you’re thinking how am I going to beat this guy? How am I going to keep him out of his gap so he won’t blow me up (get past me)? On defense, you’re thinking how am I going to get past this guy? How fast is this quarterback going to pull out of the pocket?”

For both players, they have mixed feelings with this being their final season to play football for the Tigers.

“It’s sad that it’s coming to an end, but I’m excited,” Goodson said. “I’m just taking it slow.”

“I feel like we’re going to have a great season for our senior year,” Blalock said. “I’m pretty proud of the work we’ve put in so far.”

EDITOR’S NOTE: For fans not able to make the game, they can watch the game being live streamed by Heavener Public Schools by going to www.Facebook.com/heavenerpublicschools.

• • •

TO GET THERE — Take U.S. 64 west to Sallisaw. Take Interstate 40 west to U.S. 59. Take U.S. 59 south to Heavener.