Battle Ground to face another stiff challenge in Union

Battle Ground is still winless on the season but the young Tigers are showing signs of improvement heading into this week’s matchup with Union.

Tigers are winless after last week’s 35-0 loss to Camas

Battle Ground Tigers (0-5, 0-1 4A GSHL)

Week 1: Beaverton (Ore.) 46, Battle Ground 6 Week 2: Tualatin (Ore.) 53, Battle Ground 0 Week 3: Mountain View 55, Battle Ground 22 Week 4: Prairie 21, Battle Ground 20 Week 5: Camas 35, Battle Ground 0 Next: vs. Union, 4:30 p.m. Friday at McKenzie Stadium The score got away from the Tigers, but don’t be fooled. This was a great effort against the top-ranked Class 4A team in the state.

So close at times:

The Battle Ground Tigers were so close to taking the lead on the defending state champions. The Tigers were so close to going into halftime trailing by just seven points to the top-ranked team in the state.

The game did not turn out so close, but the Tigers walked off the field knowing they played well. Sure, Battle Ground ended up not scoring, but the Tigers did get a first-and-goal in the first quarter of a scoreless game. That drive ended at the 2-yard line. And in that drive, and the others in the first half, the Battle Ground offense got at least one first down. No three-and-outs in the half against the Camas defense.

Defensive highlights:

On the first series of the game for the defense, Austin Stewart picked up a sack. He also gave his fans a mini dance move, too. Not too flashy (didn’t want to get a penalty) but I saw that, Austin. I saw that! The sack helped stall a drive, leading to a punt. And that punt was blocked by Blake Harris. Later in the half, the Battle Ground defense stuffed back-to-back running plays from the Papermakers. Third-and-1, and then fourth-and-1. No gains. Battle Ground ball. Trent Thompson would also record a sack, getting to the quarterback for a loss of 8 yards. Thompson ran from one end of the tackle box to the other end in search of the Camas quarterback. Through three quarters, the Camas rushing attack had less than 60 yards.

Coach Speak:

What did Mike Kesler learn about his team in Week 5? “The Battle Ground Tigers can play anyone tough and physical. We got better. Kids are believing in what we are doing. ‘Striving for Success.’” MVP on offense: The whole offensive line. MVP on defense: The defensive line and linebackers. Thoughts on Week 6 vs. Union: “Prove we can play four quarters and not give up big plays defensively,’’ Kesler said. “Have the offense sustain long drives ending with points. In other words, ‘Play a complete game.’”