photo by Hannah Reel

ACCS running back Brandon Sanders runs for a 50-yard touchdown during last Friday’s game against Riverdale.

Rebels face tough test Friday

By Michael Kerekes (Contact) | The Natchez Democrat

Published Thursday, October 8, 2009

NATCHEZ — Adams County Christian head coach Paul Hayles said he’s expecting a different kind of game Friday at Central Private School than what he saw last week against Riverdale Academy.

The Rebels won in convincing fashion over Riverdale 53-14, and Hayles is looking for the score to be much closer this Friday.

“The lead we got early in the game last week makes it nice for you, because it gives you room to work, but you always have to have the mindset of grinding things out,” Hayles said.

Hayles also said he was pleased with how his players stayed focus last Friday despite potential distractions.

“It was homecoming for us, and with all the festivities and distractions going on during the week, we were fortunate to be able to come out focused,” Hayles said.

The Rebels will need to maintain that focus, as they are set to face a formidable running game from Central Private.

“They have one of the best running backs in (MAIS) AA ball in Bobby Muse,” Hayles said.

“Also, you don’t hear about how good their offensive line is as a unit, but from watching them on film, they do a superb job.”

Hayles said one of his team’s strengths has been pursuit of the football, and that would have to continue Friday if it wants to contain Muse.

“Gang tackling (will be key). Our players are going to have to hold on until someone else gets there. We’re going to have to make them grind it out offensively. The longer it takes for them to score, the more opportunities we have to take the ball away from them.”

On offense, Hayles said eating time off the clock would be important for the Rebels.

“We have to be able to move the chains against them. The longer we have the ball, the less chance they have of taking time off the clock.”

Entering into the eighth game of the Rebels’ season, Hayles said his team has seen its fair share of adversity.

“We’ve had such a shuffle of personnel due to injury,” Hayles said. “This is really only the case with the linemen, but we’re still looking for consistency. It would be nice to know that this is the kid that’s going to be there all the time.”

Hayles singled out the Rebels’ depth at running back as a team strength, and also complimented the upper classmen on the unity they’ve shown.

“How easy would it have been for these guys to fold their tent after how rough it’s been the last few seasons?” Hayles said. “They’ve put themselves in a position to have a season that ACCS hasn’t had in a long time.”

ACCS (5-2, 1-0) is set to kick off at 7 p.m. Friday.