Van Buren, Iowa Valley look for win No. 1

Van Buren would like to put leave week?s trip to Pekin that put a 90-0 loss next to its name behind.

Friday?s trip to Marengo to take on Iowa Valley presents an opportunity to do just that.

Both teams are still searching for their first win of 2009 and Van Buren is hoping for its first district win since the 2006 season.

The Warriors hope to get on the scoreboard early, something they failed to do in last year?s 35-0 loss to the Tigers, and also look to hold down an Iowa Valley offense that has gone scoreless in two of its four games this season.

Last year, Tiger quarterback Mason Howar broke out for 230 yards and two touchdowns, and also scored two more on the ground, but Howar isn?t under center this year and Iowa Valley has felt the effect. The Tigers are completing just 21 percent (9-42) of their passes with zero touchdowns and five interceptions but have found some success on the ground behind running back Nick Heisdorffer who has 342 yards this year.

Heisdorffer went for 120 yards in last week?s 50-14 loss to Eddyville-Blakesburg, but big Van Buren defensive lineman Jordon Hervey will be the main force on the Warrior front hoping to hold him down. Hervey has gathered a team-high 31 tackles on the season.

Friday?s kickoff is set for 7 p.m. in Marengo.