Tonight, at Youth Sports Inc., Lawrence High and crosstown rival Free State High will fire the first shot in the battle for this year’s World Company Cup.

But the Cup, given out annually to the city school that prevails the most in head-to-head clashes, is a mere subplot in a match-up that features two stingy defenses and one high-octane offense.

Through three games this season, Free State (2-1) has outscored its opponents 18-2, and that statistic alone has LHS coach Bill Kelly thinking defense for tonight’s game.

“Games are won on the defensive end,” Kelly said. ” If we can limit their chances, maybe it won’t be such a high-scoring affair.”

Kelly said a high-scoring contest favors Free State and he expects the Firebirds to be primed for a big game. Especially considering the Firebirds are fresh off their first setback of the season, a 2-1 loss to Shawnee Mission South on Tuesday.

Lawrence High, meanwhile hasn’t played since last Thursday when it lost 1-0 to Shawnee Heights.

The time off has allowed the Lions to focus on fundamentals in practice and Kelly said he sensed his squad was ready.

“I see it in their eyes,” Kelly said. “This game means a little bit more just because it’s a crosstown rivalry. It’s only natural for them to think like that.”

Free State coach Jason Pendleton agreed and said the game will likely come down to fundamentals.

“At the end of the day, it’s just a matter of kids making plays,” he said. “It’s a statement game, one that gives the community a chance to evaluate your program and compare it to your direct competition in the city.”

Kickoff is set for 7 p.m.