The Winslow Bulldogs will renew an old rivalry on Friday, Sept. 22, when they journey to Flagstaff to play the Coconino Panthers. The Panthers were a major opponent of the Bulldogs when both were in the same conference and usually fielded good, talented teams.
One of the most memorable games many fans remember was played at Coconino and won by Winslow on a long run. Coconino was led by its talented quarterback Ray Smith, an excellent passer and runner. He became a successful coach at Kingman and recently commented that that game was one of the most exciting he had ever seen.
The Bulldogs are going into Friday’s game undefeated at 4-0 and clearly favored. They are led by quarterback Junior Villanueva and running back Mikel Bonner, with a number of talented receivers like Yoaan Djassa. Ahli Foster is a key player on an excellent defensive team. Winslow has rolled over four opponents and had all of its games under control by the half.
Coconino is 1-3 for the season and its only win was a 21-14 victory over Page, a team the Bulldogs beat 40-20 the next week. The Panthers lost to Greenway 46-14 and Payson 16-14 in their next two games. Last Friday the Panthers were shut out by Mohave, 21-0.
The Bulldogs need the win to improve their playoff position and prepare for next week’s contest against the Snowflake Lobos, easily the best and most talented team they have faced to date.
