By Matt Stewart

A difficult schedule will make every game a challenge for the Lunenburg High football team this season. Eighteen seniors will return to the backfield and offensive line to help the Blue Knights’ goal for  a winning 2011 season.

    Lunenburg opens tonight against West Boylston under the lights at Lunenburg High School at 7 p.m.

    “We want to be competitive,” Lunenburg head coach Steve Boone said. “Our league is extremely difficult with Gardner and Tyngsboro. We have a very strong league, but our goal every year is to be competitive. We have a close-knit group of seniors. ”

    Lunenburg will feature option style offense focused primarily on  running the ball, which is similar to years past. The most common formations will be the double wing [2 wing backs and a full back], and the I formation. Keys to the offense’s effectiveness are quick backs including a powerful fullback, and a quarterback who is agile and can decide which back will carry the ball.

    The Blue Knights will have to replace Mike Sullender at starting quarterback.  At press time the starting quarterback job was undetermined as senior Tyler Mathews is competing with junior Greg Abare. Both  are quick and can effectively run the option, according to Coach Boone.

    Multiple backs are needed to execute the double wing, and Lunenburg will feature a three-back rotation among returning starters Josh Trainque, Ryan Amburgey, and Harrison Arciprete. Starting fullback  will be fought out between seniors Sean Cooney and T.J. Curran.

    “[Trainque] was about a 1,000 yard rusher and was top ten in scoring in Central Mass.,” Boone said. “We’re fortunate to have him back.”

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