Our fighting Warriors kicked off their gridiron season on the wrong foot, dropping their first contest at the hands of the ruthless Arlington Cardinals.

The Cardinal defense proved to be just too stubborn as they held the Warriors to just one touchdown, by downing them 18‑7. The evening started out on a good note, with the sophomore team shutting out the sophomore Cards, 27‑0. But the good fortune of our gridmen didn't last, as the Maine West Warriors went down in the books with another loss to their credit.

The game started with a scoreless first quarter. Both teams traded touchdowns in the second, with Dan Myska '74 putting the finishing touches on a drive with a one‑yard run.

John O'Connor '74 kicked for the extra point, and the Warriors went into the half with a 7‑6 lead under their belts.

But the Cardinals proved they needed to be reckoned with, as the Arlington slotback, Bob Harth returned a punt 72 yards to set up one touchdown and then rushed 42 for another. The Warrior offense just couldn't put it together, and the Cardinals had defeated our Warriors for the fourth straight year.

Arlington, picked to capture fourth Mid Suburban championship wasn't necessarily unwarranted. But the sophomore team shows that it has great promise, and just might bring home the Central Suburban League crown this year.

Even in defeat, our varsity Warriors showed promise for the upcoming year. Their loss was an exhibition game, so it won't go on their league record. They still have a big chance for the CSL championship. They will prove to be a stronger team than they were last year, coming off of a 1‑7 record.

Tonight, they battle Waukegan at home, under the lights. We can look for a strong showing from the Warriors; we just might open up at home with a big win.