It seems so long ago that Parkland lost a football game. That loss, however, came at the hands of their opponents this weekend.

The 8-2 Trojans travel to Cottingham Stadium to square off against the Easton Red Rovers (9-1) Saturday night in the first round of the District 2-11 Subregional.

One of the main catalysts that game, and most of the season for the Red Rovers, running back Shane Simpson, was injured in their last game, a 35-14 win over Nazareth.

The Trojans can't rest easy, as Easton has depth at the position. Kyle Bambary replaced Simpson in the second quarter, and finished with 171 rushing yards and three touchdowns. Austin Brown complements Bambary well, and the Red Rovers scheme is sound on the ground.

Parkland has been one of the most complete teams over the second half of the season. The Trojans have ridden an eight-game winning streak with their play on both sides of the ball, and even special teams has gotten into the act as Eli Redmond returned a punt for a touchdown last weekend against Emmaus.

Redmond's sidekick, Jarel Elder, sat out that game, but said he is expected back this weekend. Along with quarterback Tim Baranek, the Trojans also find their success with the running game.

The stout 11 on defense, led by seniors Shaun Heist, Xavier Roden, Paul Tajiri and Zach Gurinowich, will need to get to the running backs before they find a hole, which could turn into a big gain. The Red Rovers also have an element of surprise as receiver Ezra Gaines completed a 52-yard TD pass to Chris Delbene last week on a trick play.

Parkland wanted this matchup, and revenge will be on their minds, but the way it has been playing recently, Easton should be the one that is weary.