NBCHS Vikings look to build on season-opening win against PA Carlton

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North Battleford leaned on its running game and defence throughout the victory. One of the game’s biggest moments was an interception near the 35-yard line, setting up a Vikings touchdown. 

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“We didn’t have too many big breakout plays. A lot of the stuff that we got, we just really had to earn through hard running and blocking.” 

The Vikings ran the ball more than Webster initially planned after some early trouble in the passing game, but he stayed with the approach as it continued to produce results. 

Defensively, Webster pointed to the line as one of the team’s biggest strengths. He said the group was able to generate pressure and limit St. Mary’s rushing attack, while the secondary handled its coverage responsibilities. 

With a smaller roster this season, Webster estimates six or seven Vikings are playing both offence and defence, with numerous players taking two-way roles. 

“Those athletes playing both ways are doing an amazing job,” Webster said. “It allows us to be a better team.” 

Conditioning has been a major focus in practice to prepare those players for the added workload. Webster said the coaching staff also has rotation options available when players need a break. 

Offensively, the Vikings have moved away from the under-centre looks they used in the past. This season, the team is operating out of a spread-style system with more motion from its slotbacks, while adding a handful of opponent-specific plays each week. 

The next test will be a difficult one. Carlton won a provincial championship two years ago and returned to the final last season, where it lost to Moose Jaw Central. 

Webster said the Vikings are not putting all of their attention on the final score. Instead, he wants to see how the group measures up against a strong opponent and whether it can provide another complete effort. 

“Carlton’s a very good team,” Webster said. “For me, I’m just looking to see them give full effort and give it all, and then we’ll see where that lands us.” 

The Vikings travel to Prince Albert for the matchup with Carlton. 

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Ryan.Lambert@pattisonmedia.com