John Essex takes to the road Friday night to go up against the Fruitdale Pirates in the first region game of the season.

The Hornets are coming off of a win over Sunshine, and the Pirates are coming off of a loss against Millry.

John Essex head coach Jerome Antone knows every game will be a struggle this year with his small roster, but he also knows how to motivate them to be ready week in and week out.

“We are small in depth, but we just have to continue to condition and teach,” he said. “We are going out to play with 13 players, but we will play hard and play with character. Hopefully we can go down to Fruitdale and come back with a victory.”