Rams set for rematch with Bulldogs

Published 12:00 am Wednesday, November 10, 2010

By RYAN ARENA

L’Observateur

EDGARD — West St. John felt it let a golden opportunity slip away last month when it fell to White Castle 12-6, effectively allowing the District 8-1A title to slip through their fingers.

The Rams now have their chance for atonement.

West St. John, the no. 18 seed in Class 1A, draws White Castle, the no. 15 seed, in a first round playoff matchup and a rematch of district foes.

This time, it will take place on White Castle’s home turf.

It’s alright by Valdez, who said that his team is itching to get back on the field — and has been ready for a rematch since that loss.

“It was the type of game where you’re just anxious to get back on the field,” said Valdez. “You see things you think you could have done better and you see things that you could have made more of a factor. It’s not far to travel. It was a tough loss the last time, and it’s time to make it right.”

West St. John (5-5) outgained White Castle (7-3) and allowed only one offensive touchdown to the explosive Bulldogs. But the Rams turned it over three times, rendering them unable to take advantage of a solid offensive output.

“We left some points on the field,” said Valdez. “We didn’t take care of the ball, and as a result we weren’t able to cash in those drives that we had. You can’t expect to win against anyone when you do that, much less White Castle.”

White Castle is led by quarterback Ronald Martin and running back Tyree Bracken. Martin, and LSU commitment, is also an accomplished defensive back and scored the decisive touchdown in the first meeting on a fumble recovery and return.

“Those two are just exceptional athletes,” said Valdez. “But at the end of the day you need to break down, make tackles and hit them. It’ll have to be a team effort.”

Only West St. John and Redemptorist have held White Castle under 30 points this season. The Bulldogs average 44.4 points per game.

West St. John, meanwhile, has not allowed more than 14 points in any game since Class 1A play began for them five weeks ago.

The Rams will looks to establish the run, led by Jeremy Jackson. Receiver Jarius Moll and quarterback Mark Wright are the top threat to connect through the air.