NEA looks to rebound

Published 12:00 am Thursday, October 7, 2004

LASKER – After falling to Hobgood in an emotional game last week, the Northeast Academy Eagles hope to add to their win column as they host Rocky Mount Friday for Homecoming.

Penalties plagued the Eagles last week, but head coach Skip Cook feels his team has learned from that game.

&uot;The unsportsmanlike conduct calls were unacceptable and I feel we got that across to the men,&uot; Cook said.

While Rocky Mount is playing their first year of football, they are not to be taken lightly according to Cook.

&uot;They are athletic and have scored in every game they’ve played.

Like any young team, they’re looking for their identity and I hope they don’t find it Friday night,&uot; Cook said.

&uot;We have a good chance to come out with a win but I don’t want to be over confident because Rocky Mount scored 38 against the team that just beat us (Hobgood),&uot; Cook added.

In preparing for Friday night’s game, ninth grade junior varsity players have been practicing with the varsity team.

&uot;They give us the opportunity to simulate a game situation during practice,&uot; Cook said.

&uot;They are big and strong enough to give us a taste of what it will be like during a game and that gives us the ability to practice better.&uot;

With homecoming activities in full swing, Cook hopes to keep his team focused on the goal-winning the ball game.

The game will kickoff at 7:30 p.m.