Whether the cause was the inclement weather or a lack of focus, the varsity football team could not seem to hold on to victory Friday. After jumping out to a 14-0 lead on Fort Zumwalt South by halftime, the Spartans fell flat. The team allowed 21 unanswered points in the second half, losing the game 21-14.

“It’s frustrating. We had the lead and we relaxed,” senior team captain Jeff Desir said. “Coach has been telling us, ‘four quarters.’”

Finishing is the latest issue harped upon by the team. In the first half, junior quarterback Brody Allen ran into the end zone for a score, as well as tossing a touchdown to junior wide receiver Justin Hayden. Turnovers ended the momentum in the second half as the team could get nothing going, and the defense began to allow South touchdowns.

“We know we were a better team than South, and that is the worst part,” Desir said.

The upsetting result of the previous game left the players with a sour taste in their mouths, a taste they are eager to cleanse next Friday in the first of two straight away games. Friday’s game will take place at Parkway South (2-0) followed by a game at Troy (1-1).

“We feel confident now. There is a sense of frustration on the team. We want to go out and play,” Desir said.