Photo by Mike Maddock

Most fans on the green and gold side of Harry Parone Stadium did not realize they were going to have their cake and eat it too Friday, November 4. Minutes after their Vikings served up a dramatic victory over their most heated rival, the Richland Northeast Cavaliers, it was announced over the stadium loudspeaker the Silver Foxes from Dutch Fork were on the verge of upsetting Irmo. An Irmo loss would give Spring Valley the 2005 Region 5-4A championship.

Coach Jimmy Noonan and his Vikings waited on the field while the Viking faithful, who suddenly became huge Silver Fox fans, waited anxiously in the stands. And then it was official…Dutch Fork 35, Irmo 30.

At this time last year the Vikings had just three wins and no shot at the playoffs. This year the Vikings have nine wins and a number one seed in their division of the playoff bracket. The Vikings completed this remarkable turnaround season with a victory over the previously undefeated and highly talented Richland Northeast squad and a region championship. Coach Noonan attributed the team’s turnaround to hard working, dedicated coaches and players.

Gary Gray does a little of everything from QB to cornerback to wide receiver to kick returner. Photo by Joe Gray Bryn–Alan Studios As good as the championship felt Friday night, Noonan says his team must put the RNE game in the record books and move on. The playoffs are a whole new season and there is no room for a bad game or letdown. Noonan’s Vikings open the playoff season with Conway at home Friday, November 11.

The Cavaliers must bounce back and put their first loss of the season behind them in order to prepare for their post-season run. Coach Jay Frye’s squad will open the playoffs at home against Colleton County on Thursday, November 10.

Andre Roberts runs away from Marcus Singleton (40) and Dennis Perry (35). Photo by Joe Gray Bryn–Alan StudiosOrange you glad to be a Cavalier? Photos by Mike MaddockA Richland Northeast cheerleader prays for a miracle comeback. Kenny Stephens is happy to have his mom by his side. Senior cheerleader Katherine Hart with her parents Laura and Ed.