This is an Archive of the Moniteau County Football posts to Facebook. Featuring the California Pintos and the Tipton Cardinals. The order of events have been replaced with sections to allow the reader to choose their interest. This piece is an attempt at preservation and will be added to. All posts written by Mark Hampton.
A Prayer for Friday
Dear Lord,
Thank you for giving us a game we love to watch and play. As you watch down tonight keep our players safe. Allow them the strength to endure and overcome any obstacle they may encounter. Keep their minds alert and their vision clear. Grant our coaches the wisdom and awareness to lead the Pintos and Cardinals to victory on the field and off as well. Lay down safe passage for the teams and their fans as they travel tonight. Lord, thank you again for these moments we have to share as a community. We know only you can grant us these requests. In Jesus name we pray, amen.
Last Calls for Friday
Osage
At this point in the season, it’s all about seeding in the district tournament. In a one and done format home games are priceless. While California is in the drivers seat for the 1 seed in class 3 district 6 and with help could clinch a conference championship tonight, Osage however is not as fortunate. Osage needs to win tonight and have help to have a home game against either Mtn. Grove or Ava in their district tournament. With Mtn Grove #7 and Ava #8 in the state, if Osage expects to still be playing after Halloween, they need to win tonight and they know it. I expect Osage to play their best and if California lays down and looks to the horizon-pull an upset.
Warsaw
Secure the win early and stay healthy should be the mantra for the Pintos tonight. The first goal of the season in a conference championship should be obtained tonight for California with relative ease. Warsaw is coming into this game with a 2-6 record with single digit wins over 0-8 Clinton and 1-7 Versailles as Austin Payton (OL/DL 97-99) used to say, “they like to lose, because they do it every Friday.” Any given Sunday is a football cliche to describe an underdogs chance of winning but, with a sole conference championship on the line for California, that cliche is irrelevant.
Versailles
There is an analogy for continued success in high school football. An ounce of preparation is worth a ton of wins. Preparation is the reason the Pintos enter the district tournament at the 1 seed. It is the reason they didn’t break against Osage or allow a mistake riddled Blair Oaks game overcome them. Whenever #1 California faces #8 Versailles tonight this game is likely to be over by halftime. Not because Versailles is a bad team or in some other way inferior, but because California is better prepared. At this point in the state tournament, it really is that simple.
Southern Boone
The next step for the California Pintos is a rematch from a little over a month ago, in the Southern Boone Eagles. Even though the Pintos travelled well and defeated the Eagles the previous game 48-7. Since then, neither team has lost. Now granted, the Eagles defeated 4 teams with an avg. of a little over 2 wins for the season, so they didn’t necessarily defeat Goliath’s-but they still found a way to win. Will the Eagles find a way to win tonight? Most likely not, but they will play a better game than they did a month ago for sure. If California puts the brakes on them early, the separation of score will be the same as before, but if the Eagles gain a little momentum. This game could take all 4 qtrs. for the Pintos to secure the win and host the district championship next week.
Blair Oaks
Before this year, a match between these two teams at most meant a conference championship. The Pintos and Falcons would meet on the field, lay down their best game, then return to their respective classes and try to make an individual title run. Both teams looking over the fence to see if they outlasted the other. This year is different though. Now a matchup between these two teams can mean the season. Blair Oaks moved up a class and now a title run for The Pintos and Falcons ultimately results in collision. That train wreck will occur this Friday at Riley Field in a sudden death matchup for a district championship and the right to represent district 6 in the state playoffs. If there is an advantage to be found, the Pintos have two distinct ones. One is that it’s a home game. The other is that the Falcons are made up of mostly juniors guaranteeing another shot at a title, while the Pintos are mostly seniors playing with one life left and in games like this that creates edge.
Orchard Farm
Defense wins championships is a phrase that never rings more true than in the last legs of a title bid. By reaching this point in the season, the question mark is not whether a team can score but rather, the ability to stop the offense of the other team enough times to come out ahead in the end. When Orchard Farm comes to California this week they will bring a running back that has amassed more than 5k yards on the ground in his career with over 2k this season alone. California has not seen a running back this good all season. In order to secure a California win, containment of this running back by the defensive line and linebackers is a must, forcing Orchard Farm to go to a less familiar passing game, where the defensive secondary of the Pintos, can then steal the show and advance to the semifinals.
Sacred Heart
Tipton needs this win tonight and their gonna get it. By defeating Sacred Heart it would almost lock a 4 or 5 seed playing Lincoln or Windsor in the first round of districts with a great chance to play on Halloween. Still, this game means a whole lot more to Tipton than just a contest of points or some seed in a tournament. This is the Chad Stover game. This is a game that says no matter the trials Tipton faces, or the tragedies they are forced to endure, the Tipton Cardinal team and spirit will continue.
Skyline
Tonight’s game for Tipton determines not only their seed in the district tournament, but also the path they have to a championship game. If they lose, they will host most likely Lincoln in the first round and then travel to #4 in class 1 Osceola for round 2. However, if they win they will most likely host Windsor for round 1 and then travel to Crest Ridge for round 2 which is hands down the best chance at a title shot. Skyline 5-3 is coming into the game on a two game losing streak averaging only 14 points a game over the past two weeks. If Tipton had to choose a time to travel to Skyline now is it. It will still take a big performance by Tipton to win this game and with momentum from last week. It will be close, but it can be done.
Lincoln
This game should be fun to watch. Tipton is entering the district tournament as the 4 seed hosting #5 Lincoln. Both teams know whoever comes out of this game alive is going to face a Mt. Everest task next week in likely Osceola but with almost evenly ranked/multiple win teams every senior on the field wants to win just one more game that they know they can. Tipton gets the edge with home field.
Game Recap Saturday
Osage
Whew, that was a close one. After a ride into the sunset first half by California, the Osage Indians responded with a resilient second half-that made a four possession lead tough to hold onto. The Indians made it so tough, that it took late heroics by one of the best pick artists California has ever seen Landon Mouse to stop a game tying drive that showed no signs of stopping. Still, as in any game no matter how it is played or perceived by it’s spectators, it is the final score that matters. California held on to that lead and even added a newspaper touchdown with less than two minutes to go to win 43-29 and improve to 8-0 on the season.
Sacred Heart
For a moment it was close then it was all Tipton. On a what appeared as a standing water field, Tipton dominated Sacred Heart. It was a wear down the defensive line and run to pay dirt game. That featured some senior offensive linemen getting the nod and becoming running back, carrying the ball for two point conversions. The final score Tipton 32 Sacred Heart 6 and Tipton is now 4-4 on the season.
Warsaw
If you were at the game or listened on the radio, you witnessed something that since mshsaa began keeping records in 1926, has only been done 15 times. That is score 42 or more points in a single qtr..Make that 16 now. In the first qtr of last nights game the Pintos amassed an astonishing 42 pts. scoring by almost every way possible. There has really only been 5 other point totals higher than 42 in a qtr. but multiple teams hold the same spot. Congratulations California, that was literally one for the record books.
Skyline
Tipton was needing a win last night to change there path in the district tournament and almost pulled it off. With Skyline leading at half 7-6 the goal was in grasp but a second half by Skyline that recorded 22 unanswered points even a late surge by the Cardinals couldn’t change the outcome. Still, the game itself changes little in the form of destiny for the Cardinals. The Cardinals will host Lincoln next week for the first round of the playoffs and with a win will travel to the inevitable Osceola on Halloween.
Versailles
When a team goes to tricks early it usually means that they know unless they can Trojan horse the game a loss is inevitable. Last night Versailles opened the game with an onside kick and when California recovered the game was virtually over except for the 4 qtrs. that have to occur to make the game official. California scored at will while the defense cashed the ticket to the next round to host Southern Boone.
Blair Oaks
In California, people will talk about what happened last night on Riley Field for the next 50 years. Trailing at half by two possessions, knowing in one more half this season could be over, the Pintos refused to go gently into the night. California rallied to to take the lead, but a late score by the Falcons had the Pintos down again. What happened next was unbelievable.The Pintos marched down the field 5 yards at a time with second efforts from the ball carriers that beamed resilience and placed the season in the hands of their sophomore kicker, for what would become the game winning field goal.
Orchard Farm
If it wasn’t 25 degrees during the game, a Pinto fan might have mistaken last nights quarterfinals match against Orchard Farm for a conference game in September. California once again executed a flawless offensive game and held a career 5k yard rusher to only 76 yards (50 came in a single rush against the Pinto second string). California instituted the mercy clock in the first half and with a ride into the sunset second half advance to the final four.
State Tournament Preview
This Friday the MSHSAA sanctioned 64 team single elimination state championship tournament will begin for all classes of varsity 11 man football and Moniteau County will provide two entrants. For class 1 the Tipton Cardinals and for class 3 the California Pintos. Tipton and California will both host their respective first round games. These are almost all the events a fan can know for sure and be completely certain of going into the first round of the playoffs. Yet still, there is one more thing. In a single game elimination format the team that wins advances to the next round and the team that loses not only is forced to end their season but also must say goodbye to their senior players for they will never play again. It is the inevitable finality of high school athletics. At some point it is over. To California and Tipton, especially the seniors here is to making it last as long as possible. Good luck Pintos and Cardinals Montieau County is very proud.
The Path to the Dome
California Pintos
Given the one seed, California will host the opening rounds and what seems to be an epic district 6 championship against Blair Oaks but Blair Oaks is gonna have to get thru Fulton for that to even happen. If California survives and advances they will face most likely a fellow one seed in Orchard Farm and play host due to an even number year before traveling to likely fabled Nodaway county and facing an undefeated Maryville. Another less likely but possible scenario has a lower seed defeating Orchard Farm forcing California to travel for the qtr. final and then hosting the semi-final against the Spoofhounds. The last scenario and the most difficult for the Pintos would be if California and Maryville both traveled in the qtr. final unless the Spoofhounds lose due to the even year the Pintos would be on the road again for the semifinals.
Orchard Farm
Coming into the quarterfinals, California will bring the most efficient offensive and defensive approach of the remaining 8 teams. The Pintos rank 3rd in both points scored and points allowed giving them lowest combination of the above mentioned categories*. What that means is that the Pintos have the highest performing offensive/defensive combination left in Class 3 and have the best opportunity to play for and win a state title. For the Pintos a championship is so attainable it is frightening. Still, opportunities are not guarantees and the Pintos must win against the best teams in the state for the next 3 weeks to obtain that title. Regardless, it just feels incredible knowing they can.
*obtained from MSHSAA web site
Oak Grove
When the Pintos travel to Oak Grove this Friday they will bring one remarkable season with them. This year California had an undefeated regular season that included 4 teams that finished 7-2 (Mexico, Osage, Hallsville, and Blair Oaks) and 3 of those teams either competed in or won their respective district championship. They shared a MSHSAA record with 42 pts in a single qtr. , displayed sheer resilience in a comeback win against nemesis Blair Oaks, held a career 5k yard rusher to only 76 yards on the ground, and unless the Pintos are shutout will hold the record for most points in a single season in Pinto history. Still, those accomplishments remarkable as they may be could be considered bittersweet if a title bid were to end this week. Oak Grove is a powerhouse that inflicts its will on the ground (they only passed once against Maryville) with ruthless speed that dares their opposition to either keep up or go home. Yet, at this point the winner is more often determined not by the talent on the field but rather the size of the heart in the team. Everything the Pintos have done on the field so far has brought them here (that’s talent) now everything inside them will decide if they go any further (that’s heart).
Season Recap
Last night the California Pintos didn’t give the game away on turnovers, they didn’t give up or even play a bad game. Last night the Pintos just got beat and in true defeat though heartbreaking as it may seem there is nothing to be ashamed about in fact it’s better that way. A loss thru mistakes breeds a lifetime of regrets, while a loss to a better team only serves to build character. Being a Pinto has never been just about winning today. It is about how you handle what life deals you. It’s about the approach and response to obstacles. It’s about pride. That was one fantastic ride 2014 Pintos. To the seniors you will truly be missed and the memories of the most prolific offense ever in Pinto history will never be forgotten. 628 points no Pinto team ever scored more. To the coaches thank you for your leadership. To the underclass we will see you next year.
P.S. Being a Pinto is for life the only thing that goes away is the pads.
Tipton Cardinals
If you gotta go down, go down swinging. That’s exactly how the Cardinals ended their season. They took a 5/5 record into top 5 ranked Osceola and blacked the eye of a giant on the way down. Tipton controlled almost all facets of the game except for the score (Osceola only had possession for 3 minutes in the 3rd qtr) and the Cardinals ended their 2014 season going out with a bang giving it everything they had. In successful programs that’s par for the course though. You can’t win every game you play, but every game you play, you can play with pride.
Thanks for the memories see you in 2015.
Spotlight Tuesdays
KRLL Broadcast Team
This week MCF spotlights the KRLL announcers Dr. Lutz, Brian Hill, and Magic Mike Staton. These guys bring Pinto football to Moniteau county every Friday thru the season and beyond. If you see them around town or at the game be sure and tell them thank you.
California Youth Football Club
This week MCF would like to spotlight the California Youth Football Club board. Brad Friedmeyer, Jeremy Burger, Chris Imhof, and Alisha Burger. CYFC is a non for profit organization that introduces the youth of California and Tipton to football in a positive manner consistent with the leagues core values of character development and community approval. The board members spend countless hours scheduling and coordinating games and fundraising events all on their own time in order to provide this atmosphere for our youth. If you see them around town tell them thank you or even better slip them a small donation to show your appreciation.
Burgher Haus (Mike and Jane Robertson)
Even if you are not from California a few steps into Burgher Haus you would realize you’re in Pinto country. Whether it be the conversation poured over coffee or the room dedicated to past and future success it is obvious Mike and Jane support Pinto athletics. Beyond the public display Mike and Jane also show their support behind the scenes as well. As local business owners they have employed countless student athletes over the years working hard to make sure each one has time to participate in athletics and also learn the value of work. So the next time you can’t decide what to eat simply eat where the Pintos eat. Eat at Burgher Haus.
Chad Stover
It will have been a year this Friday. This spotlight is for the family, friends, coaches, and teammates of Chad Stover. Your strength and resolve are inspirational. Forever in Fall.
Coach Marty Albertson
Being the head coach of high school sports team can be one of the toughest jobs one can undertake. Not only is there an expectation for success there is also a constant battle to keep not only the players on the field ready to play but also the parents and administration satisfied at the same time. Those two things do not always go hand in hand. Since Albertson has been head coach the Pintos have seen rejuvenated success with back to back district titles and two trips to the final four in the state tournament. In part because of talent on the field but more importantly wisdom off as well. Coach Albertson actively sought out and acquired one of the best high school football coaches in Missouri history (coach Labuary) to serve as his second and in an ego driven position that’s a selfless act that deserves recognition. Thank you for being our coach. Here is to you Marty J. Albertson
Who to Watch Wednesdays
Walker Borghardt
After several miscues last Friday, expect Walker to play with a chip on his shoulder and something to prove. Combine that with Walker being one of the most talented athletes on the Pinto squad. It could be very dangerous for any opposition.
Tipton Cardinal Team (Sacred Heart Game)
This could be one of the most emotional games anyone on the sideline has experienced. Look for Coach Braby to field a team focused and determined to win. Truly playing like they have a 12th man.
Jaden Barr and the Second String
Expect Barr to use this as a statement game that says the Pintos are ready for tournament play. Look for Barr to take care of business early and allow the second string to get some final real game reps before the playoffs begin next week with most likely Versailles coming to Riley Field.
Dylan Cooper and Nigel Mertgen
Tipton is gonna need a repeat performance from these two and their offensive line this week when they travel to a very beatable Skyline. Tipton has almost guaranteed themselves a home game in the tournament with last Friday’s win but a win this week could lift them in seeding giving the Cardinals an opportunity to travel to likely Crest Ridge for their second game of the playoffs instead of #4 in class 1 Osceola
Landon Mous
This is shaping up to be a very special season for Mous. According to KRLL as of last Friday Mous is sitting at 9 interceptions on the season putting him on pace to be ranked in the top 5 for interceptions in a single season. The number he needs is 12 and if he is gonna hit it look for it to come in the next two weeks after that any team California faces will treat him like the plague. In other words any qb with a decent game plan will be instructed to not throw near him.
Nathan Squires
Southern Boone would like nothing more than to come to Riley Field this Friday and put an end to the Pinto season. They know that if they can catch a few breaks and put California on their heels they may have a chance at doing just that. That’s where Squires comes in. Nothing shatters a teams confidence faster than a scared quarterback or running back who can’t wait til the game is over so they can stop getting pulled off the ground by their teammates. Expect Squires to set the tone of the game by laying down a few massive hits early in the game forcing Southern Boone to want to end their season as much as California wants to keep theirs going
Ramiro Garcia and Sam Clenin
Heroics for a defensive lineman rarely come in the dramatic more often they come in the grind. What goes unnoticed by a casual fan is actually a migraine headache for an opposing offense that realizes if anything positive is gonna come from this possession it will have to come from the outside or from the air because going to the middle is running into a brick wall. Garcia and Clenin have gotten better each week this season and coming off one of their best performances of the year expect a huge game from these two Friday night
Thoughts for Thursdays
If California faces Blair Oaks in the district championship, the Pintos will not only have to defeat the Falcons they will also have to defeat a magic piece of wood. Before the Falcons started the playoffs all the players signed the enchanted forest item that aids in their success. MCF has researched the mshsaa rules regarding magic items in the possession of a team and as of now there are no specific rules against it unless the item tries to physically interact with on field play. (Satire)
If California or Tipton win a district championship this season, Moniteau County will have produced a district champion in football 21 times over the past 20 years. (3 years both teams were champion 00, 03,12) That’s amazing.
Beginning in 2006 The Tipton Cardinals had a 68 regular season game winning streak. That record in Moniteau County may never be broke. #unbelievablesuccess
Make that a 3peat. The California Pintos capture their third district title in 3 years in a thriller over the Blair Oaks Falcons.
On a side note, the magic piece of wood brought to the game by the Falcons was only able to subdue the officiating creating temporary blindness and hearing loss no players were affected.(satire)
With 56 points against Orchard Farm the 2014 California Pintos have now scored 614 points and moved to second all time Pinto history for points scored in a season. They passed 1999 at 597 and 1998 at 602. 2013 has the record with 621.
Boxing Reads 