BELLAIRE — It’s a game which requires no introduction– though you could write a lengthy one.

Friday will be the 122nd meeting between the Bellaire Big Reds (3-6) and the Martins Ferry Purple Riders (6-3) for another rendition of one of the oldest rivalries in the Buckeye State. The two teams will battle for the SPARKY Trophy which currently resides in Martins Ferry, winner of last year’s contest.

Currently, though, Bellaire still leads the all-time head-to-head, dating back to 1905, with the Big Reds holding a 59-55-7 advantage.

“The SPARKY Trophy has been around for quite some time,” Bellaire head coach Mark Bonar said. “It’s a really nice thing. People have even tried to copy our rivalry, but this is a great rivalry, the end of season. We have a special place for it in our hallway and

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