The Pike Liberal Arts Patriots jump back into region play on Friday when they travel to Dothan to take on the Northside Methodist Knights.

The Patriots (4-2, 1-1) snapped a two game losing streak last Friday when they defeated Glenwood Gators 34-28 on homecoming.

“It’s good to get back into the region,” said Patriots head coach Gene Allen. “This week has been a better week of practice. The kids have been focusing really well.”

This week the Patriots travel to take on Region 2 newcomer Northside. The Knights have a 3-4 overall record a 1-1 mark in the region.

“They have a good football team,” Allen said. “They are new to football, they have only been playing football for four or five years. They have a talented team and the third biggest school in the AISA.”

The Knights have lost three consecutive games including last week’s three-point loss to Chambers Academy 49-46. The Knights average 26 points per game.

“Their skill guys are pretty good and they have a tailback that is outstanding and he will present some problems,” Allen said. “I feel like we are up to the challenge and I feel like we will be ready to play.”

On the defensive side, the Knights have struggled over the last three games,  giving up 41 to Fort Dale, 42 to Lee Scott and 49 to Chambers.

“They are athletic on defense,” Allen said. “Hopefully with what we do offensively we can give them some problems. We have been successful with that so far, hopefully we can continue it.”

Allen said the Patriots have a number of players who could provide key contributions on Friday, including Reed Jinright and JT Ball.

“That’s great to have,” Allen said. “Offensively we have several backs that are contributing and getting several yards.”

This is the first time the Knights and Patriots will meet on the football field. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. on Friday at Northcutt Field in Dothan.