Central football returns to semifinal game

The Cape Girardeau Central High School football team returns to familiar territory on Saturday afternoon. Yes, the game will be played in Cape Girardeau. But it's the type of game the program has played in recent years that brings familiarity. This is the Class 4 semifinal.

The Tigers (9-4) will make their third appearance in the semifinals in as many years. Last year the team earned a spot for the state championship held at the Edward Jones Dome in St. Louis.

If Central is to return to the title game this year, it will have to go through powerhouse Webb City, which defeated Central in 2013 during a semifinal game and again in 2014 for the championship.

Webb City has 41 straight wins. This streak dates to Nov. 6, 2013. USA Today ranks the program at No. 23 in the publication's national poll.

This will be a tough contest for the Tigers. With an improved defense, Central has a mental toughness not to be overlooked.

We wish Central the best, and hope you will make plans to attend the semifinal game at Tiger Stadium on Saturday. Kickoff is at 1 p.m.

Congratulations to Central on a strong season. Regardless of the outcome, this has been a tremendous run. But as coach Nathan Normal said, "We still have unfinished business. That's what we're preaching."