"We have to be more focused.." - Phil Strickland Teams looking to end streaks of futility open the region today at York.

The Indians (3-3) enter the game on a 2-game losing streak after a disappointing performance against Spartanburg.

York (2-4) are in the midst of an uncharacteristic 4-game slide after losses to Boiling Springs, Lancaster, South Pointe and Rock Hill.

"It's been difficult playing these caliber of teams," York coach John Barrett said. "Right now we are just physically beat up."

Gaffney coach Phil Strickland said York's record is more a product of a unrelenting schedule, not necessarily reflective of any deficiencies with the Cougars.

The Indians' troubles may be more mental than physical. Strickland said the team has demonstrated it can compete with the elite teams, but must exert more effort and enthusiasm.

"We have to be more focused," Strickland said.

The coach traces the lack of focus to the team's inexperience and lack of maturity.

"Some of these kids have to turn into leaders," he added. "Successful teams not only have talented athletes but good leaders."

To be successful, the Indians also must develop a reliable passing game. This season, the Indians are averaging only 110 yards through the air.

"It's been a little bit of everything," he said. "We have to work on our passing game."

Turnovers has been the source of concern for Barrett. The Cougars have generated a lot of yards, but few points.

"We've been able to control the ball but we've turned it over in critical situations," the York coach said.

Thanks to an imposing offensive line and a talented running back, the Cougars will employ a run-and-runsome more offense. The line is anchored by guard Jamie Smith and tackle Ben Kennon.

Running back Quastin Walker has gained 650 yards, including 200 against Rock Hill.

Adrion Crawford returns at quarterback.

Strickland said it's no secret what the Cougars want to do.

"It's smash-mouth football," he said. "The offensive line is the strength of their team.

"Naturally, you don't want to give them four yards and a cloud of dust. The game plan is to get them into third and long (situations)."

The Cougars defense, normally known for its physical play, has been a sore spot this season.

"We haven't been able to stop anybody," Barrett said. "We are getting knocked off the ball."

Barrett expects the Indians to test the Cougars' defense.

"They are a typical Gaffney team," he said. "I've never seen a bad Gaffney team. I have tremendous respect for Gaffney. The numbers may change but they are the same team. They run the ball hard and their defensive linemen are real good."

Both teams look at today's region opener as a chance to erase their recent woes.

"We have a chance to redeem ourselves," the Gaffney coach said. "I'm very optimistic. With the right bounce of the ball, we could be 4-1. We proved that we could move the ball. There is a light at the end of the tunnel."

"Our kids have a great attitude," Barrett said. "The key to the game will be to keep their offense off the field."

The Indians, on the other hand, must stop the Cougar running game to come away with a much-needed win.