By Patrick Newell

Sun Sports Editor

SIDNEY – Sidney coach Jeff Matthews achieved a coaching milestone Friday night against Norwich, and was quick to distribute credit elsewhere.

Meanwhile, his Warriors improved to 2-0 on the season turning back the Tornado’s second-half surge in a 28-19 triumph.

Matthews took over the Sidney program in 1996, and the previous season Sidney did not have a football program due to budget constraints. In just one decade and a state title already in the hopper, Matthews has established his school as one of the burgeoning programs. He is also perched atop the victory list in school history.

“It’s longevity, and not a lot of guys have stayed in this position very long,” Matthews said. “My name is on the list, but for me to take credit for it is ridiculous. It’s the kids, and we’ve assembled a great coaching staff.”

Career win number 54 was by no means a cake walk for Matthews and his talented Sidney club, even though the host club did not punt in the game and held a total yardage advantage of 420-259.