CRYSTAL FALLS - If there is one thing the Forest Park Trojans have proven time and again during their run of grid dominance, it's that they always seem to find ways to win - even in games where they were clearly overmatched.

"As coaches, we don't have any explanations as to why that happens," Trojans head coach Bill Santilli said. "But during our successful runs we've had several instances where our guys just rose to the occasion. It comes down to pure desire."

That intangible element will need to be alive and well on the Trojans sideline Saturday afternoon with unbeaten Lake Linden eyeing a Class D district title.

Two weeks ago, the Lakes officially swung the balance of power in the Great Western Conference with a dominating 36-6 win over the Trojans.

"Anyone who thinks 36-6 is happening is dreaming," LL-H coach Andy Crouch told the Daily Mining Gazette.

"Lake Linden is a big powerful and explosive machine," Santilli said, comparing the Lakes' athletes to likes of those Forest Park has tangled with at Ford Field. "They play so efficient and effectively. Offensively and defensively they are tough to stop. They are the complete package.

"Individually, we were outmatched the first time. We're entering this game with the intent to play better and make fewer mistakes. This is a huge challenge. We have to play with emotion."

Forest Park was limited to just four first downs in the first meeting with Lake Linden. Minimizing Lake Linden's chances will be a main focus this week.

"We have to do something to extend our drives and keep our defense off the field," Santilli said.

Lake Linden allowed just 34 points during the regular season, while racking up 308. Lakes cruised to a 46-12 victory over Ontonagon in the first round of the playoffs.

"Lake Linden is very diversified," Santilli said. "They give you a lot of looks and run motion. There's a reason they are undefeated, and it's because they do what they do very well."

Forest Park's defense has improved as the season progressed. The Trojans produced two of their three shutouts in October and stuffed North Dickinson's potent offense twice inside the 10 yard line in last week's 21-15 pre-district win.

"We've come a long way this season," Santilli said. "I'm hoping we can energize our guys so we're not just going up there for a bus ride. I hope we can play to our potential."

Forest Park-Lake Linden winner takes on Stephenson (6-3) or Bark River-Harris (9-1) for the regional championship.