Renovation of Vaughan Field in Shakopee began last spring and the $5.34 million project wasn't quite finished in time for Friday's grand opening.
Warmth radiated off the asphalt laid just hours before kickoff. Strewn about the parking lot were two front loaders, pallets of cinder blocks and stacks of chain-linked fence.
Under construction also applies to the Sabers, who lost 42-7 to Wayzata. While improving in coach Ray Betton's second year, Shakopee (1-1) has work ahead.
"We'll get back," Betton said. "We'll get the kids to have a sense of urgency and respond."
Hoping to build on last week's victory at Anoka, the Sabers fell behind early. The Trojans (1-1) scored touchdowns on its first five possessions. Shakopee's initial first down came in the second quarter.
His team leading 14-0, Wayzata sophomore quarterback Keaton Heide completed his first two passes for touchdowns to Sayvonn Hill (50 yards) and Alex Jensen (46).
"We've got eight juniors getting their first varsity experience," Betton said. "We didn't trust our eyes or our keys and you can't do that against a perennial power like Wayzata."
A turf field and a new scoreboard impressed the fans who packed the stadium's home bleachers. Their loudest cheer came as Dalton Bullard ran 25 yards for a third-quarter touchdown.
David La Vaque
