Cooper’s confidence

Spartans lose to Howell Vikings 7-42.

Running+back+Jordon+Cooper+makes+a+tackle+during+first+half.+The+Spartans+lost+7-42.

Running back Jordon Cooper makes a tackle during first half. The Spartans lost 7-42.

Spartans traveled to compete against the Francis Howell Vikings for the Vikings homecoming game Friday, Oct. 2. The Spartans lost 42-7. Senior running back Jordon Cooper scored FHC’s single touchdown.

Cooper scored the first touchdown of the night within the first 13 seconds of the first quarter. The Vikings then evened the score with an eight-yard touchdown with 7:52 left in the first quarter.

The second quarter started slow, but Howell pushed for a 54-yard touchdown with 3:17 left in the first half. Vikings made time for yet another touchdown with :07 left, ending the first half. Spartans trailed 7-21.

Second half continued with touchdowns from Howell. With 10:09 left in third quarter Vikings scored, leading 28-7. Another Viking touchdown with 6:17 remaining in third quarter. And finally the last touchdown of the night was scored by the Vikings with 3:51 left in the third quarter.

The fourth quarter was scoreless for both teams.

Cooper’s touchdown was the first time in the Viking’s undefeated season that they had been losing.

“It was exciting, but it was kind of surprising at the same time because I wasn’t expecting us to get a jump on them that quickly and it was just offensive line had some good blocks. I just managed to get through it all [Howell defense],” said Cooper.

Each week, Howell coaches give players a list of the best players on their opponents team. Cooper’s name was on top of Howell’s list.

“I can’t take all the credit for it. Coach Eberhardt’s play calls, offensive line and wide receivers- they help me the most, if it wasn’t for them I wouldn’t be able to do anything that I’ve done this year,” said Cooper.

Cooper also added that after being tied with the Viking’s after first quarter gave the Spartans lots of confidence.

“Move on from the bad plays, don’t let those negative plays stick in your head and just move on,” said Cooper on how to maintain confidence the entire game.

The boys take on the Timberland Wolves Oct. 9 at home at 7 p.m. They hope to pull a win to be able to continue in district games and keep their season going.