Expectations have been high coming into the season in Linesville for many years.

But fourth-year head coach Pat Gould has to be pleased with a perfect start given the level of competition the Lions face on a yearly basis since the region realignment.

“We’re excited about where we’re at,” Gould said. “The kids are really excited about playing Farrell. As of right now we’re healthy. We had some injuries last year at this time

“But it doesn’t get any easier.”

Linesville is 23-16 since the switch, second only to Saegertown (29-14) amongst former French Creek Valley Conference members.

And although the Lions’ previous coach was Dan McCullough, one of the longest-tenured and winningest coaches in county history, things had to change with the Linesville program to remain successful.

“Things have changed a lot since then,” Gould said in reference to the way the program was before ’04. “We do things a lot differently than we used to.

“In the past we didn’t play these teams until the playoffs. Now we face them five or six times a season. We weren’t ready for these teams in the past, but now I think we are getting close.”

So far this season, the Lions have earned a 4-0 overall mark, 3-0 in Region 1.

In Week 4, they avenged a one-point loss from 2007 by defeating defending region champion Mercer 28-21.

Much like in the past, the Lions have done it all despite a small roster and the inevitable injuries. They had 31 players on the squad at the beginning of this season.

“For the most part it’s been the kids’ work ethic,” Gould said of the root of his team’s success. “They don’t quit. We’ve put in a lot of young kids to play at different times.”

Freshman blocked a punt, another freshman recovered it in the end zone.”

Freshmen Jimmy Kearns and Jon Weidner made a play which is a great example of how Gould’s young players are stepping up.

In Week 4, Kearns blocked a Mercer punt attempt and Weidner pounced on it in the end zone for the early lead against the Mustangs.