It didn’t take long for someone to take it to the reigning 5th Region Champion North Hardin Trojans. In fact, John Hardin’s Jeremy Garcia did it in less than 30-seconds into the new season as he scored the first of two goals as the Bulldogs put the Trojans away in their season opener, 4-1. North Hardin, who is trying to overcome the loss of several starters on last year’s team through graduation rebounded the following game beating Bullitt East, but then overcame an early deficit to Bethlehem to tie the score before the Eagles finally put them away, 3-2. Coach Jim Stone’s team may have started 3-2 after the first week, but will have time to develop his young scorers. Meanwhile, John Hardin followed up their big win over the Trojans by getting taken down by a very good Central Hardin team, 3-1.
Coach Mike Werisema welcomed the return of Jordan Mabe, who recovered from a concussion scored the eventual game winning goal late in the first half. The Bruins, who came off an emotional performance in a 1-1 tie against St. X have proven they can play with anybody this season. So has John Hardin, who rebounded from the loss to a 4-3 win against Marion County behind Garcia’s hat trick. Meanwhile, the Elizabethtown Panthers dropped a tough decision to Louisville Butler (3-0) on their new stadium turf, but should play a part in the District Race. Although Region contenders Nelson County, Bardstown and Thomas Nelson have proven to be better than average teams, the real drama may be in the 17th District again as it appears as though the war between John Hardin, Central Hardin, North Hardin and Elizabethtown could go back and forth all season.
