Hatchets gear up for Lakers

Courtesy Huron Daily Tribune

PIGEON — When Elkton-Pigeon-Bay Port and Bad Axe square off this Friday, much more than bragging rights will be on the line for the two bitter rivals.

For the first time in a while, both programs will be fighting each other for conference supremacy. 

Heading into Friday's 7 p.m. matchup, both the Lakers (6-0 overall) and Hatchets (4-2 overall), sit atop the Greater Thumb West standings at 3-0. 

A win Friday would put the victor in the driver’s seat for the conference title. 

“It’s pretty exciting,” said Bad Axe coach Mark Manenti. “It’s exciting for us and I’m sure it’s exciting for them. It should be a good one.”

Bad Axe fans have had a lot to get excited about so far this season. After starting off 0-2, the Hatchets have reeled off four straight wins and are sniffing the playoffs for the first time since 2001. 

In Laker land, it’s a more subdued excitement. The No. 7 ranked team in Division 7 is coming off a 7-3 record last season, including a playoff berth. 

This time around, EPBP has its sights set on a league title and an undefeated season, which are very much within reach. 

Despite a dismal 1-8 campaign a year ago, Bad Axe gave Lakers everything they wanted last season in a 26-18 loss at home. Friday’s contest should not disappoint either. 

The contest will feature two offenses that like to run — and both do it quite effectively. 

EPBP comes at opponents with a big, physical offensive line and a trio of versatile runners. 

Quarterback Dustin Kady leads the way with his big play potential, while running back Terrance Dubs punishes teams up the middle and backfield mate Mauricio Diaz-Reyes brings the speed around the corner. 

“They have a lot of good, skilled athletes and their offensive line looks good on film,” Manenti said. “We have to stop their key players and get after them like they’re going to get after us.”

Manenti said other keys to a victory for either team will be limiting penalties and turnovers. 

Bad Axe also boasts a big-play quarterback of its own in Tommy Morneau. 

The junior signal caller has put up huge numbers on the ground so far this year running things for the Hatchet offense. 

Morneau also receives great support in the backfield from running backs Joe Aymen and Matt McVey. 

Manenti pointed to his offensive line as the unit that could potentially sway things in the game. 

“Our offensive line is young, but they need to step up to the challenge,” he said. “They’ve been pretty good all year, but they will have to bring it up another notch. If they do that, we’ll be alright.”