The Panthers should see a
run-first, defense-oriented team in Fitch.

VINDICATOR STAFF REPORT

East High football coach Brian Shaner went conservative on offense last Thursday. This Friday, he’s going to open things up a bit.

“We need to keep everyone involved, especially our playmakers,” said Shaner, whose Panthers gained just 77 yards on offense in losing their first game 19-8 to Canfield. “Everyone asked what we were doing last week because it didn’t look like a normal Rayen-type team. We played close to the vest and didn’t press the envelope.

“I let the guys know we’re going to loosen it up a little bit.”

East’s challenge doesn’t get any easier this weekend as it faces another run-first, defense-oriented team in Fitch.

Coach’s signature

“They’re a typical Coach [Phil] Annarella-coached team,” said Shaner. “They’re fundamentally sound and they take great pride in running the football and controlling the tempo.

“On defense, they’re not going to give up the big play and they’re going to make you work hard for every single yard.”

East senior QB Sal Battles was the focal point of the offense last week, both as a running and throwing threat. Panthers RB Gary Thornton, who had 18 tackles and scored a defensive touchdown from his linebacker position last week, will likely get more touches and Battles will likely throw more — and earlier. (East’s wideouts struggled last week and Shaner took the blame, saying he needs to get players involved sooner.)

Also, RB Anthony Robinson, who transferred from Fitch, will be back in action after missing last week due to a separated shoulder.

“He’s a phenomenal running back,” said Shaner. “I don’t know how many carries he’ll have, but he does add depth.”

Depth will be an issue again this week as the Division I Falcons look to unleash a running attack that piled up 222 yards on the ground in last week’s 28-6 win over Chaney. Fitch also held the Cowboys to 113 yards of offense in giving Annarella his first win at Fitch.

Honest effort

“I’ll be honest with you, that was the last thing on my mind. I mean that from the bottom of my heart,” said Annarella, who has been a head coach at Rayen, Warren Western Reserve, Warren Harding, Hickory and Niles. “I wanted the kids to go out and execute well, and to play well, and establish themselves.

“At times, it wasn’t pretty, but they did what they had to do to win.”