No. 1 Maine-Endwell's quest for its third consecutive state title begins Saturday. Head coach Matt Gallagher hopes this journey that now brings the Spartans into the postseason will be a continuation of what his team has done all year. 

"We want to get better every week and we feel like our chances of winning are good."

Last week marked 30 straight wins for the Spartans, an experienced group that has traversed this road these last two years. They will begin the Section IV Class B playoffs at home.

"We want to be in this position that gives us home field through the first playoff game," he said. "We're excited to be here and we're going to keep working the way we have all year long."

ME gets No. 4 Norwich in its semifinal matchup, the same opponent they faced last week to close the regular season. The Spartans won the game 56-20. 

With the short timeline between the matchups, ME anticipates very few changes from both teams.

"We have the film right there based on who they have there and what they're going to show us," Gallagher said. "If they're adjusting things that means they haven't been doing things which means they probably aren't as good at them."

Gallagher and his group controlled the first meeting and want to ensure they replicate that outcome on Saturday. However, they remain prepared for any possible turns or changes in the game.

"We're looking at it is we're going to see the same thing we did last week, but anything can happen," he said. "It can add up quick so you want to make sure you're ready to go."

But ME has framed its outlook on earning more chances to play instead of worrying about the chances of elimination. 

"We want to look at it as if we win we get to do it all again next week," Gallagher said. "I think these guys don't want it to end because they are having so much fun."

Saturday's contest will mark the final home showcase this season.

"It's always bittersweet playing the last game," Gallagher said.

But Gallagher expects his group ready come kickoff to start the climb to the summit it has reached the last two seasons.

"Our community supports us so much and we get such a great crowd," he said. "We're looking forward to Saturday."

——————

PHOTO BY ANTHONY GOSS