Heading into Friday night’s matchup against the Middleton Tigers (5-3), the Robinson Knights (2-4) had lost a series of close games resulting in an inauspicious start to the season. On Friday however, Robinson fans could take comfort in a 17-0 shutout that showcased the Knights’ powerful defense and potentially reputable offense.

“These guys have had every chance in the world to quit this year with three close games,” head coach Shawn Taylor said. “Everyday in practice they’re working hard, doing a good job, I can’t say enough about it.”

After a defensive battle in the first quarter that left the score at 0-0, the Knights caught a break in the second quarter when Middleton fumbled a Robinson punt, giving the Knights the ball on the Tigers’ 37-yard line. A few plays later, quarterback Kobe Kopple (’18) fired a strike into the hands of  Cameron Lockridge (’18) for a 14-yard touchdown.

Later in the quarter, as the clock wound down, William Roseman (’18) muscled a 48-yard field goal between the uprights, making the score 10-0 in Robinson’s favor. The field goal was the longest in school history, breaking the 47-yard record previously held by Delbert Alverado (’06).

Following a half-time intermission that included fancy cars, a sword  and the naming of the Homecoming Queen and King, Zjala Phelps and Bryce Hoover, the Knights extended their lead in the third quarter. Kopple (’18) connected once again with Lockridge  on a 28-yard touchdown pass.

“I just set my mind, that’s all I do,” Lockridge said.  “If we all play like that you’re talking about one of the best teams in Hillsborough Country.”

The Knights held on to the 17-point lead for the remainder of the game.

“Now we have to wait on the point system,” Taylor explained, discussing the team’s chances of making the playoffs. “But if we win the next two we’ll be 4-4 and we’ll hope for the points.”

The Knights face Jefferson next Friday, Oct. 27, at Robinson High School (6311 S Lois Ave, Tampa, FL 33616).