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The biggest rivalry in Selma resumes Friday night when crosstown rivals Selma and Southside tangle at 7 p.m. at Memorial Stadium.

Selma leads the all-time series record at 31-8, including a 34-6-win last season at Southside.

First-year Selma coach Leon Day gets his first crack in the rivalry, where trash-talking begins in barber shops, but gets settled on the field.

“We’re excited about the opportunity to play in such a great environment,” Day said. “It’s always fun to play in games that matter so much to so many people.”

Day said he is concerned about stopping a high-powered Panthers offense, led by wide receivers Derick and Erick Smith and quarterback MJ Reese.

Southside head coach Charles Moody Jr. is not judging Selma on its season-opening loss to Beauregard in the AHSAA Kickoff Classic last week.

Moody said he is concerned about a young and dangerous Selma offense that features wide receiver Omari Smith and quarterback Samarion Woods. both sophomores.

“Selma has a great collection of talent,” Moody said. “Their offense has some really explosive players as well! Their o line has size, along with their h backs. Smith can score the ball from anywhere on the field. Woods can hurt you with his arm and legs from the QB position. Their RB is a force as well and can do a lot of different things! They have a lot of nice pieces! We pray we are able to neutralize their threats.”

At press time, Memorial Stadium is under construction, getting ready for the Sept. 1 contest.