[Hoot Gibson]

I am predicting a narrow Belfry win but I will be happier with a running clock shutout in the Pirates' favor.

T-CATS, I have lived outside of Kentucky for nearly 20 years and I know that when this group of Ashland seniors were 8th graders the Ashland adults decided to forfeit a playoff game to Belfry. How's that for a show of confidence?

(You may also be unaware that Ashland forfeited some basketball games to Rose Hill a few years ago on "principle" but resumed the series once O.J. Mayo left town and Rose Hill's program fell on hard times again. Forfeits are a tradition at Ashland. Be sure that the game has not been canceled before driving to Belfry Friday night.)