ERATH - The playoff future of the Erath Bobcats and North Vermilion Patriots will continue to take shape tonight as the two teams meet in Erath at 7 p.m.

For the Bobcats (3-3, 0-2), there is the added element of Homecoming.

“Our players get involved,” said Erath head coach Jacob Byler. “Hopefully they do not get too involved.

“I think they will be ready to play.”

On the Patriots’ (3-3. 1-0) side of things, the situation is simple when it comes to Erath.

“Right now,” said NV head coach Stephen Lotief, “we are right on the border of the playoffs looking in. We win this, it will help.”

The Bobcats have defeated the Patriots two straight years; Byler said he does not believe a third win will come without a fight.

“I think this will be like all North Vermilion/Erath games,” said Byler. “Since I have been here, they have all been hard-fought.

“I think the team that wins will be the one that makes the fewest mistakes.”

Lotief, whose team has not been on the road for five weeks, said he feels his team will be up for the challenge.

“I think we will be all right,” said Lotief. “We have to be ready because they are good.”