Thomas
Dale squeaked by Manchester 9-7 in the season opener for both football
teams.  The Lancers struck first in the second quarter, on a 7 yard run
by Sr. RB Ronnie Crosby, after a short punt placed Manchester in great
field position.  The Knights answered with a 67 yard TD run by Howard
Spencer.  But the kick failed, leaving Thomas Dale down 7-6 going into
the half.

 Manchester fumbled on the opening
drive of the second half and, after the Lancersâ?? defense held strong
with their backs against the goal line, a Jonathan Kuda 19 yard field
goal gave Thomas Dale the lead at 9-7.

 Both teams then traded drives around
mid-field until Manchester pulled together a nice 12-play drive that
bridged the 3rd and 4th quarters.  After entering the red zone, a
costly fumble ended their last real threat of the night and preserved
the Knightsâ?? win.