Cautious Optimism Ahead of Semifinal

The mood of the Glen Cove High School football team is a mix of pre-game jitters and winning streak confidence as it prepares to go up against Plainedge Friday, said captain Chris Klimaszewski.

"Everyone's nervous but we feel confident getting into the game. I think we can beat them on offense and defense," Klimaszewski said Friday morning.

No. 2 Big Red (8-1) will face No. 3 Plainedge (7-2) in the Nassau Conference III semifinals at 7:30 p.m. at Hofstra University. It will air on MSG Varsity on Monday at 10:30 p.m. and be broadcast live on the network's website.

It's the first semifinal appearance for Big Red since 2004.

Klimaszewski said the team's attitude is bolstered by its eight-game winning streak, which he called a "big surprise," although the squad grew increasingly comfortable in its ability as the victories racked up.

"After we beat Lynbrook in Week 3, we realized we can get to Hofstra, possibly get to the Nassau County championship," said Klimaszewski.

Coach Pete Kopecky said Glen Cove is facing a formidable opponent in Plainedge, a team his players have not faced since last October. That game ended in a 49-7 defeat for Glen Cove.

"They light up the scoreboard," Kopecky said, noting the 54 points they scored against Lynbrook Nov. 10.

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He said his team will have to defend well against Plainedge quarterback Nick Frenger, who finished last week's game with 19 of 25 for 278 yards and four touchdowns.

"We're gonna have to find a way to control the game," Kopecky said.

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