By Tiffany L. Rehbein
The Havre Blue Ponies are on a four-game winning streak, but three consecutive early-season losses knocked them from the playoff hunt.
So, the Blue Ponies (4-2 in the Central A, 4-3 overall) will face the Anaconda Copperheads (4-2, 5-2) in Central A action at Blue Pony Stadium.
The will be the final game of the season, as only two teams, Butte Central and Lewistown, advance from the central division. It will also be senior night to pay tribute to the hard work and leadership of the soon-to-be graduates.
The last time the Blue Ponies failed to make the playoffs, the current batch of seniors were in the seventh grade.
In last weeks 16-6 over Dillon, senior quarterback Ricky Brown completed 8-of-19 passes for 127 yards and one touchdown.
On the ground, senior Ryan McIntosh had 15 carries for 67 yards.
In the air, Brown hit senior tight end David Heberly for a one-yard touchdown reception.
Senior Nate Baltrusch led all receivers with five catches for 82 yards.
Senior Doug Kallenberger had one reception for 31 yards last week.
On the offensive line, Troy Worden, Michael Holden and Jesse Suek played tough for the Ponies.
Defensively, Chris Klobofski, Matt Sasaki, Heberly and Kallenberger helped to hold Dillon to just 137 total offensive yards.
Seniors Tyler Bebee, Willie Hulett and Landon Grant have proven themselves game after game at their defensive positions.
Also, senior Nick Newell has stepped in offensively, while seniors Chad Finneman, Jay Rucinsky, Charles Kolczak, Derrick Barnekoff and Trampus Conaster stepped up on the defensive end.
The week before at Browning, the Indians were held to zero yards passing against the tough defense.
Its fun to be playing well and our seniors are really stepping it up and helping our younger kids along, Olson said.
Anaconda, who also fell to Butte Central and Lewistown this season, could pose some stiff competition.
Were all playing for pride, Olson said. Any time you finish a season strong, it will help you for next year.
Kickoff is slated for 7:30 p.m.
