Friday Night Clash: Sept. 28

Braden River vs. Port Charlotte
It'll be a battle of the Pirates tonight as Braden River hosts Port Charlotte in its Homecoming game. Braden River is still searching for its first win of the season after falling to Riverview 29-6 last Friday while Port Charlotte (3-1) is coming off a 32-30 comeback victory over Naples Palmetto Ridge. Braden River has scored 13 points in four games this season and will need to find some sort of offensive spark to be able to stay with Port Charlotte.

Lakewood Ranch vs. Palmetto
Lakewood Ranch has won three of its four games this season, but will face its toughest test this week when it plays host to undefeated Palmetto. The Mustangs are coming off a 22-21 district victory over Boca Ciega while the Tigers escaped with a 9-7 victory over DeSoto County last week. Lakewood will need strong performances by quarterback Chad Rex and running backs Chris Pearcey and A'Shawn Angel to keep pace with Palmetto.

Cardinal Mooney vs. Clearwater Central Catholic
Cardinal Mooney lost its first game of the season to Lemon Bay last week and tonight won't be any easier for the Cougars. Clearwater Central Catholic has posted three consecutive shutouts, including last week's 30-0 victory over Palm Harbor University. Cardinal Mooney will need another strong performance from quarterback Reese Vita, who threw four touchdown passes two weeks ago.

Other games:
ODA at Evangelical Christian- ODA hopes to get back into the win column after dropping two consecutive district games. Evangelical Christian has yet to win a game this season, having also dropped two district games.

Booker at Clewiston- Booker hopes to get its first win of the season when it travels to Clewiston, who also is winless on the season, tonight for its district opener. The Tornadoes could see the return of running back Mike Jones, who is arguably Booker's biggest playmaker.

Saint Stephen's vs. Shorecrest Prep- Saint Stephen's earned its first win in nearly two years with a 20-0 victory over Gateway Charter last week. The Falcons will look to make it two straight tonight.