The Cairo Syrupmakers bring some experienced players with them when they come calling on Bainbridge High School at Centennial Field Friday night.

The Syrupmakers return 9 of 11 offensive starters from their team that reached the State Class AAA quarterfinals a year ago.

They return their entire offensive line. Senior tailback Maguel Smiley, who had a good night against the Bearcats last season, returns as well.

In the Bearcats’ 16-13 victory over the Syrupmakers last season at West Thomas Stadium in Cairo, Smiley picked up 30 yards on five carries and scored a touchdown.

The Syrupmakers returning interior offensive linemen include seniors Chris Howell, Burt McKinsey and Zack Hough and juniors Anthony Mosely, Brady Johnson and Patrick Asbell.

Probably the most inexperienced group on the Syrupmakers’ 2010 team is their receiving corp. While John Holt, J.J.Cooper and Terrell Bryant are all seniors, Bryant is the only one with extensive playing time.

All three will probably play both offense and defense. On the defensive side of the ball, Holt plays cornerback, Cooper plays rover back and Bryant plays cornerback.

Bearcats head coach Ed Pilcher is impressed with Syrupmakers quarterbacks Brandon McCrary and Grant Latimore.

“Both Cairo quarterbacks are very talented,” the Bearcats head coach said. “They lost last year’s starting quarterback to graduation, but they are just as talented there this year.”

Pilcher says that the 2010 Syrupmakers, led by head coach Tom Fallaw, will be competitive.

“You can always count on Cairo being well coached and solid in all areas of the game,” Pilcher said. “I urge all of our fans to come out and fill the home side stands Friday night.”