ACCS hosts powerful Centreville

By Michael Kerekes (Contact) | The Natchez Democrat

Published Thursday, October 22, 2009

NATCHEZ — Adams County Christian School will have its hands full against a smash-mouth running game when it hosts Centreville Academy tonight.

“They have both a power running game and can make play action passes,” ACCS head coach Paul Hayles said. “They’re very good at what they do.”

Centreville, which is led by power runner Zach Sinclair, will bring a potent offensive attack to Bobby Marks Stadium. Hayles said he’s wary of the weapon Centreville has in Sinclair, and missed tackles cannot happen if the Rebels want to come out on top.

“He’s the type of runner that, if he has an opening, he’s going to (cause) a lot of problems for you,” Hayles said.

“He gives 100 percent in all his runs. When you look at him, you realize he’s not really a big guy, but he runs like one. We’re going to have to hold onto him, wrap up and gang tackle.”

Centreville assistant coach Brian Stutzman said he’s impressed with the job Hayles has done with ACCS in his third year coaching the Rebels.

“They’re a well-coached team,” Stutzman said. “Paul’s got them to be much-improved from pervious years, and we expect a big challenge (tonight).

“They can throw the ball, as well as run it. They’re a well-balanced team, and they do a good job mixing it up (on offense).”

Centreville is coming off a big win against Trinity Episcopal last Friday, and Stutzman said he feels like the team might be on a permanent upswing in what has been an up-and-down season so far.

“The win (against Trinity) gave us a little confidence and let us know that we’ve still got it,” Stutzman said.

“The kids’ spirits are high. We feel like we might have turned the corner, and hopefully we can keep the momentum going and make the playoffs. We have to win the next two games (against ACCS and Central Private) to have a chance to win our district.”

Hayles also said his team’s playoff chances would be determined in the final couple of weeks in the regular season.

“It’s going to come down to game 11,” Hayles said. “We’re one of four teams in the mix for the wildcard position, and anytime a win occurs, it goes a long way (in helping your chances).”

For ACCS, the key to beating Centreville will be in the Rebels’ ability to keep the Centreville offense on the bench, Hayles said.

“We have to get first downs. If you have the ball, and you’re moving the chains, that powerhouse offense of theirs is not on the field.”