In their season opener against Pennsbury, Northampton quickly got its first test of character and determination.

Down 14-7 at the half, the Konkrete Kids didn’t waste any time turning the tables, rallying for a 20-14 victory.

With the win, the Kids will host East Stroudsburg South in is home opener Friday night at Al Erdosy Stadium.

Head coach John Toman believed his team would eventually would find its footing.

“This group has great character and it showed with how the fought,” beamed Toman. “They did a great job adjusting and played a great second half.”

Toman credited first-year defensive coordinator Derek Bleiler for his schemes and adjustments.

“Our defense had some new faces including a new defensive coordinator and scheme,” he added. “We needed a half to settle. He (Bleiler) is running different variations of we did last year.”

Toman also liked what he saw from senior quarterback Gavin Taff.

“Taff was solid throwing for two (touchdowns) and running for another,” said Toman. That’s what we expect from him. Taff is our offensive standout”

Taff saw a similar picture from his team.

“I think that we could’ve came out stronger as a whole,” he stated. “Our defense let a touchdown on the first drive, and the offense and I went three and out. I think coming out stronger in the beginning of the game is going to be more important going against other teams this season. Our team didn’t give up though, and we came out stronger the second half.”

“We had some key injuries, and coach always emphasizes next man up if someone goes down. The younger sophomores and juniors stepped up yesterday and were an important part in why we won yesterday.”

Taff has gained a more comfortable perspective in is third year as a starter.

“I felt comfortable out there,” he stressed. “Coming back for a third year, I go into the games more settled, less anxious, and I feel like the rest of the boys feel the same way. It was a great first game though, and I’m very proud of the team.”

KIDS KONNECTIONS: Toman also acknowledged Sincere Wadlington for his play up front, Keegan Hackett for his linebacker play, and Noah Kline for his work in the secondary. Northampton edged East Stroudsburg, 24-21, last season. The Kids have won the last five meetings between the two teams, and they have outscored them, 179-62 ... Northampton did lose running backs/cornerbacks Zeke Spencer and Joey High to injuries, and their status is unknown ... Hackett had an interception for the Kids ... In last year’s game, Taff was 5-for-14 for 52 yards and a touchdown.

PREDICTION (Season record 1-0): Kids’ comeback should prove to be huge. However, they have to get off to a quick start to avoid a close contest. With their running game not at full strength, this will be a true test for their defense ... Taff also will need to be on target with plenty of play action ... East Stroudsburg will be hungry to avoid an 0-2 start and likely will play desperate ... Kids will need to play mistake-free football and this can set the tone for the rest of the season with Parkland in the wings ... Something tells me Kids will pull past an emotional victory as a launch for a tough stretch ahead. A Roseto tomato pie from assistant head coach Kevin Ronalds will really hit the spot. I only have a few frozen pieces from the last one ... KIDS, 24-21.