East High football awaits opponent and rival Jordan


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SALT LAKE CITY — Last week, East High football played Northridge in the season opener, and defeated its opponents despite a few errors and rain.

"We played a really good team, in bad weather, and won the game. I think it was a step closer to where we need to get them confidence," East High School head football coach Brandon Matich said, adding he was happy for the win but also values the playing experience his team acquired.

"[The game] was valuable for this youthful class. It's a talented group but they lack experience; playing time."

Matich is focusing on growth, especially giving experience to the younger players.

Tonight, the Jordan High School Beetdiggers will play at East High.

"You're always jittery and your eyes get a little bigger when you're young. I always get nervous. Probably around 4 p.m. I'll be more nervous," Matich said.

The East-Jordan face-off has become a special game of the year.

"It's become a rivalry, it's kind of a big deal," he said.

Two years ago, it was planned that East would play Serra High School from San Diego, and Jordan High to play Long Beach High.

Both games were canceled, resulting in Jordan looking to play East. The final score was East 28-27 in the fourth quarter when a power outage shut down the game down.

It was proposed the teams play the following day, however the coaches felt it was not in the best interest for the players' physical health.

The return to battle against Jordan the following season was long anticipated by Matich.

The Leopards won 59-36 at the home of Beetdiggers — and so the rivalry stands.

"The interesting thing about Jordan is their quarterback, Austin Kafentzis. We look forward to playing him. It's going to be a good game," Matich said.

Brandon Matich mentioned key players to watch in tonight's game:

John Mafi, 2; running back

Hausia Sekona, 9; defensive end

Loa Kaufusi, 7

Lorenzo Manu, 8

Christian Folou, 1; middle linebacker laurenrose324@gmail.com

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