The Patriots, who haven't won more than three games in any of the last six seasons, are battling expectations as much as anything else as they prepare for the season under new coach Dominic Lepore. That will start with game No. 1 against Marlboro. The Patriots feel they have been building, quietly, the past few years. Small steps like finally picking up a couple of wins against Shore Conference Class A North opponents, or the four losses by seven or less points last year as they went 2-8. Now, they feel they are ready for an even bigger step.
Foundation has to do with it.
Some schools are known for football. He's done a good job setting us up. You don't want to make excuses, but we lost four games last year by seven points or less against some quality opponents. It's just a matter of developing. My job is to get us over that hump.