Three years ago, the Eastland Cougars finished their season with a pair of losses at the Class 1A state tournament. This afternoon, they can avenge that final loss, when they take on the Madison Trojans in the 1A state semifinals at Carver Arena in the Peoria Civic Center.

While the key components are different for both teams, Eastland coach Tony Dunlap has gotten a look at the main pieces of this year’s Trojans (20-11). Dunlap took advantage of snow postponing Tuesday’s Class 1A NIU Supersectional in DeKalb to watch the 1A Jacksonville Supersectional on the Internet.

“It’s interesting, cool, scary, whatever you want to call it,” Dunlap said about seeing the Trojans again. “They’re an outstanding team with a great tradition, and they’re the real deal.”