MOUNTAIN TOP SPORTS: Golden Eagles keep firm grip on No. 1

The Johnson Central Golden Eagles and Pikeville Panthers are the lone remaining unbeaten area football teams following action this past weekend.

Coach Jim Matney’s squad maintains its No. 1 ranking in the latest Mountain Top Sports Super 7 football poll released Monday.

Johnson Central, now 9-0, will look to conclude a perfect regular season this Friday night on the road at Belfry.

Pikeville, now 9-0 following this past weekend’s forfeit in over Jenkins, remains at No. 2. The Panthers host Ridgeview, Va. (7-1) Friday night.

Belfry, 6-2, climbed to No. 3 following the Pirates impressive win over Pike County Central. The Pirates wrapped up the district championship.

Shelby Valley, with a record of 8-2, climbed into fourth place this week. The Wildcats are idle until post-season play.

Rounding out the poll this week were Paintsville (7-2) at No. 5, followed by Man (7-1), which lost at Point Pleasant, at No. 6 and the Hawks, now 7-2, held onto the No. 7 spot.

Martin County (6-3) and Mingo Central (6-2) both received votes.