Clayton News Daily

The rivalry between the Jonesboro Cardinals and the Forest Park Panthers goes back long before members of this year's squad were born.

Even before their parents and in some cases their grandparents were born.

But tonight the two oldest teams in Clayton County will square off in a Tara Stadium battle for the 52nd time in the two schools' long histories. Kickoff for the game is set for 7:30 p.m.

A year ago, Jonesboro pulled out a defensive 6-0 battle to give head coach Clint Satterfied's club only their second win of the 2006 football season.

Satterfield, who returned to his alma mater, played in the game back in the 1980s when he was a student at Jonesboro.

Forest Park has a decided advantage in the five-decade old series, leading the rivalry 37-14.

Jonesboro won the first two meetings between the two teams, beating the Panthers in 1952 and 53. Forest Park then came back and started a five-game winning streak.

Both teams have struggled lately. A year ago, Jonesboro finished the season with a 2-8 record. Forest Park went 0-10 last year.

The Panthers are trying still for their first win this season.

Forest Park managed to tie Mundy's Mill earlier this year, but is 0-3-1.

Jonesboro's only victory so far this season came against Morrow as they beat the Mustangs 12-6.