The importance of finishing strong is something that Airline coach Bo Meeks always stresses.
Well, the Vikings started and finished strong in a season-opening 27-6 victory over the Union Parish Fightin’ Farmers Friday night in Farmerville.
Coby McGee returned the opening kickoff 85 yards for a touchdown, and the defense turned in a dominating performance.
McGee had a big night. He scored another rushing touchdown after a catch-and-run reception from Brad Fream on a 55-yard drive.
“Coby McGee had an outstanding game,” Meeks said.
Brian Fielding also contributed to the victory, scoring touchdowns on runs of 3 and 28 yards.
Airline jumped out to a quick 13-0 lead. Farmerville cut it to six with a touchdown just before the half on a drive partially aided by a penalty.
But McGee scored his second touchdown in the third quarter to give the Vikings a 13-point cushion again. The defense shut the Farmers down the rest of the game.
“We did a good job of answering the bell in the second half,” Meeks said. “We got a couple of scores and put it away.”
Meeks said the entire defense had a hand in the victory.
“Josh James, Josh Smith, D’Kameron White, those guys were making plays all over the place,” he said.
Airline had to replace every starter on offense, although McGee and Fielding saw a lot of action last year. Meeks said Fielding ran the ball well, and Fream, a sophomore, had a good game for his first start.
Veteran Bryce Bailey had some good punts that helped the Vikings control field position.
“Coach (Schirra) Fields had the special teams prepared,” Meeks said.
Airline plays its home opener Friday against Green Oaks, which fell to Benton 51-0 in its season opener.
— Russell Hedges, rhedges@bossierpress.com
