Lions to host Elks in playoff showdown

The Lambert football team hopes that the third time is the charm on Saturday. The Lions host Augusta Saturday in the first round of the playoffs. The two teams have met the past two seasons in the playoff with Augusta coming out on top both times. The Elks come into Lambert 5-3 while the Lions hold a record of 7-1.

Augusta features a strong rushing attack and a strong armed quarterback. “Augusta really likes to run the football. They have a strong, fast running back who carries the ball a lot, but they have a good passing game as well. Their quarterback is real athletic and throws a nice ball,” Lambert head coach Shawn Lien said.

Lien has had a chance to see the Elks play when Augusta traveled to Hysham. “They played Hysham pretty tough, it was a good game until late. Augusta is a real rounded football team who have played some tough competition,” Lien said.

The Lions have relied on their rushing attack all season long. Michael Vaira and Tanner Irigoin formed one of the most dangerous one two punches in the state early in the season. Irigoin went down with an injury against Hysham and has been sidelined ever since. Matt Mullin has filled in nicely at fullback as he ran for 82 yards and two touchdowns against Rosebud.

Lambert also possesses the option to go to the air. Quarterback Jeremy Evenson has thrown eight touchdown passes this season. His favorite target has been Patrick Billingsley. Billingsley has caught six touchdowns and has made several outstanding catches throughout the season. Billingsley also gives the Lions a reliable kicker.

The Lion defense has been steady all season long. Lambert has only given up 70 points all season long, while the offense has scored 332 points. Diede and Vaira lead the tackles, while Billingsley and Diede lead the Lions in sacks.

The Lions and the Elks meet Saturday in Lambert at 1 p.m.

sports@sidneyherald.com