UPDATED: Lions Bring Their Fight, But Not Enough to Pummle Westmont

football coach Dan Sanko is hoping his Lions find their fight prior to tonight's match-up against Westmont, and keep it going strong all four quarters.

"I think both teams are hungry for a win and I think both teams can get a win," said coach Dan Sanko. "I'm predicting and hoping this will be their best effort tonight."

Sanko said injuries set the Lions back in the season's first two weeks, with losses against Plano and Coal City.

"Our quarterback's got to play well tonight," Sanko said, speaking of junior Nick Saul. "He's only a junior and not a captain per sae but he's a leader of our defense. I've got to depend on him to be a good leader tonight... We just have to move the ball a little bit more on the offense."

UPDATED: 11:25 p.m.

Despite a second half of spirited play, two advantageous interceptions by Westmont meant a 28-20 victory over Lisle.

"They did fight tonight, but mentally they weren't solid. They've made a lot of mental and physical mistakes [this season]. They're not diminishing," Sanko said after Friday's game.

Westmont took an early lead, ending the half with 14 points.  Sanko said the Lions 'picked up momentum' after. The boys picked up their first touchdown of the night with just under six minutes left in the third quarter.

Sanko said Lisle played a strong defense, but gave up too many yards overall. Interceptions resulting in gains of more than 60 and 80 yards, respectively, always kept the Sentinels at least one touchdown ahead.

Next week the Lions face Wilmington, the longtime champ in the Interstate 8 Small Conference.

"You never know with football, it's pretty fickle," Sanko said. "You can have the talent but it also depends on mentality and confidence level."