Flashback to 1987: Nanticoke Area sends message in opener

Nanticoke Area football coach Bill Goodman had 18 reasons to be excited entering Week 1 of the 1987 WVC season.

Goodman welcomed back 18 lettermen, including eight starters. With quarterback Jim McDermott leading the way, there was plenty of optimism to turn around the Trojans’ 3-7-1 record from 1986.

“I’ve been excited since this group was sophomores,” Goodman said. “I’ve just been waiting for his bunch to become seniors … and this is the year. If we don’t challenge for honors this season then it could be a long time before Nanticoke has the opportunity again. Our strong point is our experience, but we lack depth on the offensive line.”

Right out of the gate, the Trojans were going to be tested. They had a Week 1 matchup with traditional WVC power Coughlin.

The Crusaders were led by three-year starter Matt Walsh, who entered the season with more than 3,000 yards rushing.

“Without a doubt Walsh is the key,” Coughlin coach John Joseph said. “We need another great season from him.”

The Trojans were looking to make an early statement and were looking for some revenge against the Crusaders. In 1986, Coughlin routed the Trojans 38-7. To help motivate the Trojans, Goodman and the coaching staff wore T-shirts at practice with “38-7” on the front.

It worked.

McDermott was 17 of 27 for 198 yards and a touchdown in the Trojans’ 31-14 win.

He added two touchdowns on the ground.

“My offensive line gave us so much time,” McDermott said. “And they were opening holes for Bob Scally (115 yards, two touchdowns) like you wouldn’t believe.”

Scally had touchdown runs of 16 and 47 yards.

This was the best game I’ve had,” Scally said. “When you have someone like Jimmy, who the defense keys on, my job is a lot easier.”

Walsh was limited to 55 yards and a touchdown.