By Jerry Clark

Published: Wednesday, September 19, 2012, 8:55 p.m.
Updated: Wednesday, September 19, 2012

Last week was a rough one for many of the northern area teams. After suffering losses, Pine-Richland, Shaler and Hampton look to rebound, and Vincentian looks to build from its first program win. All games are played at 7:30 p.m. on Friday unless otherwise noted.

Pine-Richland (1-2) vs North Allegheny (3-0)

North Allegheny has had no trouble at all this season, scoring an average of 44 points and allowing an average of eight points. For the Rams to pull off the upset, the team must contain NA quarterback Mack Leftwich and hope its sophomore quarterback, Ben DiNucci, can keep finding C.J. Jackson in the end zone. DiNucci and Jackson have hooked up for a score every week thus far. 

“Ben and I took time together this summer (to build a rapport on the field),” Jackson said. “We still toss the ball around after everyone else has left practice.”

Jackson said games against NA are always good, and the team has taken extra time to scout the two-time defending WPIAL champions.

“We need this game,” Jackson said. “We like to play the NA powerhouse. We will see how it goes.”

Shaler (0-3) vs Peters Township (2-1)

The Titans and Indians had rough outings last week and look to get back on track Friday. Shaler coach Chris Siegle said his team is taking baby steps right now, and he is not panicking because he knows to build this program right, “it takes time.”

Quarterback Brad Good is progressing, according to Siegle (as are players at the other positions), and his continued development is important to the team's success.

As for this week, Siegle said the motto has not changed.

“It comes down to work ethic and tempo,” Siegle said. “Coach (Rich) Piccinini will have his team ready.”

Hampton 2-1 vs Laurel Highlands(0-3)

Hampton suffered its first loss of the season but looks ready to get back into the win column with this 7 p.m. home game.

Vincentian (1-2) at Carmichaels (2-1)

The Royals earned the first win in program history and look to take advantage of the momentum. In addition to the win, Vincentian coach Tim Storino was happy nobody got injured last week.

“For us to win this week, we can't turn the ball over,” Storino said. “We didn't last week, so we want to play a clean game and play mistake-free.”

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