Every report on the Esko football team described them as an athletic, experienced, and talented team. After seeing them in person, Coach Tom Nelson fully agrees. “They are a very talented squad. We got down 21-0 to them and we could have just packed it in – but we did not! We fought until the very end and I am proud of them for that.
” It is important to recognize that coming into the game, Esko had only given up only six points all season.
Nelson continued, “We did some good things, but were also exposed for our mistakes. I am very proud to coach these kids as they represent our program very well. That said, we need to put some wins together starting right now heading into the playoffs.” The schedule should get a little easier now as the Agates play Pine City, Hibbing and Proctor the next three weeks. All three teams have struggled to some degree this year and the Agates believe they can have a chance for a win in each game, if they play strong and smart.
Tate Nelson is a sophomore who also plays basketball and runs track. “Esko is definitely the best team we played this year. They have a lot of athletes and it shows. They are fast. We play Pine City this week and I know they have had some rough patches this year, but I guarantee that no one is overlooking them. We need a win.” Tate added that his team has been struggling with a missed assignment in the wrong times the past few games. “We have improved a lot, but still have lots to learn.
” Quarterback Jacob Carpenter is a sophomore at William Kelley. “Switching teams for me has been a challenge. I have had a lot to learn. Playing these good teams has been a real learning experience. Playing a team like Esko is a real motivator.
” Jacob also thinks his team needs a win badly, but refuses to take anyone lightly regardless of their record. “We all know everyone we play will be tough.
” Agate scoring started with a two-yard run by Carpenter (set up by a 43-yard pass completion to Tate Nelson on the previous play.) The second touchdown came one play after a Trent Gomez interception when Deacon Bark scored on a 45-yard run. Alex Cernada kicked both extra points.
Carpenter was 4-9 passing for 108 yards and an interception. Nelson caught three passes for 109 yards. Bark had 58 yards rushing to lead the Agates and Kyler Pitkanen added 39 yards. On defense, Zach Bentler led the way with 14 tackles including two for a loss. Carpenter and Zack Libal each added nine, while Adam Adamski and Cash Williams added eight and seven stops respectively.
The Agates will be looking for their third win Friday evening in Pine City at 7:00 before returning home to face Hibbing on October 14th.
