PEDRO - Some things never change. And for the past few years, not much has changed with the Wellston Golden Rockets.

Former coach Dave Lucas turned the Wellston fortunes around the past three years, but he has retired due to health reasons. Still, the Rockets haven't changed much from the team the Rock Hill Redmen have been playing the last three years.

"They're pretty typical of the teams we've played the last three years," Rock Hill coach Bob McCollister said. "They have big, solid running backs, a fullback and tailback who run hard, and they're a physical football team."

Wellston has won the last three meetings, including 36-14 last season. But McCollister is hoping his now veteran team will help in reversing past disappointments against the Rockers.

"Our guys gained a lot of confidence because of the progress we made in the weight room and playing the past few years. It helps being a senior team and going through varsity wars. And when you win a game against a team like West, that's just another shot of confidence," McCollister said.

"They're a run-oriented, physical ball club. They're more of an I-formation team. They look a little more like us. They trap some, but they mix it up running the ball."

Rock Hill's big and strong linemen will be looking to slow down the Rockets attack, but McCollister is more concerned with moving the football against Wellston's defense led by linebacker Lance Phillips.

"We'll have to mix it up," McCollister said. "Lance Phillips plays offensive guard and linebacker and he's one of the best players we're going to play against this year. He's very active and gets to the ball. He defends against the run and pass well. I'm pretty impressed with him on film."

The Redmen are coming off a major 19-12 win over Portsmouth West. McCollister is hoping the victory will be a springboard against Wellston.

"When you win a game against a team like West that was the state runner-up last year, that's just another shot of confidence. Hopefully, it'll carry over against Wellston," McCollister said.