Rangers defeat Tatanka, eye homecoming

Ranger football fans have an opportunity to see their 2-2 team play at home this Friday in what will likely be an exciting game against Miller-Highmore.

The boys are coming off a 30-0 win against Lakota Tech. Head coach Brett Eckert says he knew the team had to shut down the Tantanka’s best players to keep them from gaining momentum.

 “They had some exceptional athletes at the quarterback, running back and wide receiver positions,” Eckert said. “Probably some of the best athletes that we see in a year. We knew we needed to be disciplined and prevent them from making too many plays.”

This required a full commitment from the Rangers’ defense. 

“Defensively we were really pleased,” Eckert said. “The boys were able to get big stops on defense.”

However the team also had to score, which it did despite a lot of penalties.

“Offensively we had too many penalties because of lack of discipline that cost us drives, but we were lucky that our defense was able to play strong all day,” Eckert said. He also said the team made good use of eating up time on the clock as well.

Eckert knows the boys are in a good spot now but  there are still a lot of games left in the season.

 “We need to play well against Miller, play sound defense and fly to the football,” Eckert said. “Finally we need to eliminate bad penalties and execute on offense.”

Eckert is looking forward to being at home on Ranger Field.

“Being at home after a three-game road stint is always nice,” he said. “It is also homecoming so we are hoping for a great crowd on Friday night.  It should be a good game.”

Kickoff begins is Sept. 22  at 6 p.m.