File photo – Jack Clancy

Despite losing 22-14 at Anderson on Friday night, the McKinleyville Panthers continue to take some strides.

And for a program that has struggled in recent years, there are definite signs that new head coach Fel Barlow has his players headed in the right direction.

Trailing by two points late in the game, the Panthers drove deep into Anderson territory, but a pick six ended the drive and a close game, dropping Mack to 1-1 on the young season.

Afterwards, junior quarterback Jack Clancy and his teammates were visibly upset about the loss and the manner in which it happened.

“I like that they’re emotionally pissed off,” Barlow said. “That shows they care.”

The performance was encouraging in more ways than one for a team that had grown accustomed to blowouts in recent years, with several players stepping up.

Clancy continued to showcase his obvious talents despite the late interception, and he connected with junior receiver Mettah Kuska on a scoring pass for the second straight week.

Senior running back Connor Berg also continued his impressive start to the new campaign with a TD run, his third in two weeks, as well as a successful two-point conversion run.

“I like the effort the kids gave,” Barlow said. “I’m not mad at all. Connor Berg definitely played well, and Jack Clancy performed well. He’s maturing and he’s starting to understand better.”

At middle linebacker, senior Connor Alto was instrumental on a defense that had three forced fumbles and only gave up two TDs, as was junior Derek Ray at defensive tackle.

“Our defense, they continue to play,” Barlow said. “They never gave up, and they got the ball back when we needed it.”

The Panthers trailed 8-6 at halftime.

Afterwards many of the Mack fans were more than a little unhappy with the officiating and several of the decisions.

The Panthers were also shorthanded for the game, traveling with just 15 varsity players, including one who only plays as a kicker.

The McKinleyville JVs did get the win, beating Anderson 22-8 to go to 2-0 on the season and 4-1 this calendar year.