THE LATEST LINE: SEMO LOSS A DIFICULT ONE TO TAKE

The pain etched on Southeast Missouri State University head football coach John Mumford's face told the entire story Saturday.

Mumford, his eyes appearing tired and bloodshot, graciously answered questions from a reporter following what had to be one of the most difficult defeats of his coaching career.

One minute, the Indians appeared poised for a major victory on a glorious afternoon for football before an enthusiastic homecoming crowd of 7,352.

The next minute, Tennessee Tech silenced the fans with a late blocked punt and touchdown that led to a 17-14 SEMO setback.

So instead of Mumford, his staff and players rejoicing in what might have been just the victory needed to get this season over the hump, they had to instead contend with a heartbreaking setback that no doubt leaves them with a crushing feeling heading into an open date.

SEMO, after a dismal performance at home during a 32-7 loss to Eastern Illinois the previous week, was hoping to turn in a much better effort and even its record at 3-3 at about the midway point of the season.

Well, even though the win never came, the effort and performance were sure there. On this one day at least, the Indians certainly looked like a legitimate Division I-AA team that can go toe-to-toe with the heavyweights of the Ohio Valley Conference.

Sure, I know the skeptics are going to say that it's still just another loss and the Indians are now only 2-4 (1-3 in the OVC) as their hopes for a winning season become increasingly difficult to attain.

But taking Saturday's game from the angle of a pure sports fan who enjoys competition and appreciates a strong effort, my hat goes off to the Indians.

Facing the OVC's top-ranked defense and a strong overall team, the Indians actually had the better of play after a slow start, outgaining the Eagles 295 yards to 215, including 200 to 88 in the second half.

I've been the first one to question the Indians' previously predictable offense, which drew more than a few catcalls in the Eastern Illinois game.

So I'm also going to be the first one to praise the Indians' offensive coaches for directing a strong second half that kept the Eagles' tough defense off-balance most of the time.

And it goes without saying that the Indians' defense is one of the best in the league. Anybody who appreciates rugged, hard-nosed, spirited defensive play has to appreciate what SEMO's defenders bring to the field.

I know, the bottom line is it was simply a loss. But as somebody who appreciates good competition and has been a part of some sports disappointments of his own, I couldn't help but feel for Mumford and the Indians Saturday afternoon.

* Congratulations and good luck to Kelly High's softball team, which will compete in the Class 2A Final Four next weekend in Columbia.

The Lady Hawks are attempting to raise donations to have their final four games broadcast on Cape Country 106.1.

Anybody interested in helping out should call coach Rhonda Evans (471-3933), Mike Riley (471-4529) or Jim Arteme (545-3875).

~Marty Mishow is a sports writer for the Southeast Missourian