Knightdale — This year’s battle for the 64 Sword should be as good as ever according to Knightdale and East Wake coaches Kamelio Johnson and Jimmy Williams.

The Knights have never taken the sword from the Warriors. Last year it looked like that was going to change until East Wake ran a reverse in for six — and the game — in the final minute.

“We weren’t as good as them athletically, but found a way to win,” Williams said.

With a new lineup of coaches in Knightdale, the two teams have never truly met. The coaches met at a scrimmage years back while Johnson was with Sanderson in Raleigh. But as far as the sword goes, it appears it will be Knightdale’s big plays against East Wake’s gritty defense.

“I think we’re talking about a rivalry game,” Johnson said. “All the other things are icing on the cake. We want to beat them, and I’m sure they want to beat us. That’s it — each program really wants to win. We’re five minutes down the street. You don’t need any extra incentive. You don’t need much more motivation for this one.”

Williams points out that Knightdale has a little something extra to play for.

“They just want to get in the playoffs,” Williams said, noting a loss in the game would likely nix the Knights’ chances. “We’re focused on stopping No. 20 and not giving up the big plays.”

Johnson said he doesn’t know much more about the sword than hearing the players talk about it on occasion, but he does know it’s a big deal.

The speed that produces big plays for the Knights is something Johnson said is a big help, but it’s not the team’s only weapon.

As for the Warriors, Williams said though all the struggles his team has always fought hard, and that’s exciting.

“Fighting and playing tough has to be enough for me,” Williams said. “We hope the kids learn to overcome adversity and learn life lessons, but overall we still want to win.”

Williams said his players talk about the sword quite a bit over the course of the season.

“It’s all about bragging rights. It’s cliche, but it’s the truth,” Williams said.

The last game of the season, a playoff berth on the line, and a big rivalry is all there is to say.

“I’m very excited the kids play hard, we just need better results and that’s what we’ll be trying to do Friday,” Williams said.

Knightdale’s home field try for the first-time possession of the sword will begin at 7:30 p.m.