By Cooper Sanders
The Star-Herald
The Ethel Tigers remain undefeated heading into district play with Friday’s 36-13 win over the WInona Christian Stars.
Last week, head coach LV Smith said he thought his team needed a battle test heading into district play and they were on Friday night. The Tigers struggled early, starting off very slow on both ends of the football according to Smith. However, the Tigers were able to recover and adjust to come out on top.
“Throughout the course of the game, we gained more momentum,” Smith said, “In the second we were able to put together a very very well executed game plan.”
Offensively, the Tigers rushed for 346 yards. Ladarius Hubbert tallied 183 yards and three touchdowns on 25 carries, while Marcus Jones totaled 127 yards and a touchdown on 16 carries. Freshman Taylon May added 34 rushing yards as well. Through the air, Jones completed six passes for 46 yards and a touchdown, while throwing an interception. Jaylen Estes caught five of those passes for 39 yards and a touchdown. Smith said that besides his offense’s slow start that they clicked on all cylinders after adjustments were made. Smith said multiple freshmen had to start defensively and made a few freshman mistakes, causing a slow start.
“The reason we were in that position was lack of execution,” he said.
Defensively, the Tigers were lead by Jonas King who made nine tackles and one sack. Braden Hodges and Hubberts both totaled seven tackles, while Kameron Fortenberry totaled six. Matthew Arnold, Bobby Milstead, and May all made five tackles. Smith said that for the Tigers to realize what they were doing wrong in the game and make their own adjustments showed the can battle.
“We were strictly battle tested because Winona Christian came to play football,” Smith said, “We realized a little too late that they wanted the game just as much as we did.”
The Tigers now prepare for powerhouse Velma Jackson in their first district game. Velma Jackson finished last season losing in the semi-final round of playoffs, however in Class 2A.
“We haven't put a bigger emphasis on one team over another team, but we dont ignore the fact of how dominant of a team Velma Jackson is,” Smith said, “The guys who remain vocal, they are motivated; not just for this game but for every game we have ahead of us.”
The Tigers know what kind of team is coming this Friday, however they have momentum and are motivated.
