Defense Holds

Last Friday night, the Cats went to Lanett looking to establish themselves in the playoff picture, or at least have a chance of making the post season. Since joining 2A Region 5, Lanett has fielded an athletic and fast team. I watched the Panthers during warm-ups and was impressed. They were tall, muscled, and able-bodied. A sharp contrast with many of the young, undersized Bobcats.
Coach Bailey's defense started the game strong, stopping the run despite three talented backs. But, a couple of turnovers deep in Bobcat territory set up Lanett's first touchdown. As the second quarter ended, the Cats trailed 18-15. The second half was wild with both teams trading the lead. A Woodland TD was answered by two from Lanett. The score was now 32-22, Panthers.
This is the time in the game where some kids might get ready to quit. The fast and physical Lanett team seemed to have the momentum. Not our guys. A 30 yard TD pass from QB Barren to McManus got us to within 3. The defense gets another stop and the offense answers with the longest drive of the game making the score 36-32.
On Lanett's first play from scrimmage, a hand-off up the middle goes for 65+, touchdown, 40-36. (Coach Bailey throws his hat) We score, they score, we score again, mostly on the back of #23 Howard who carried the ball, our playoff hopes, and at least 2 Panthers all the way down the field with just under two minutes to go. That was plenty of time for the quick-strike Panther offense. But, it would not be a win for the home team that night. This time, the defense comes up with an interception near mid field. With no timeouts remaining, the Panthers can only watch as Woodland lines up in the victory formation. Final score 50-46.
It wasn't pretty, and Coach Bailey was already complaining about the 300 yards they'd allowed. But, it's true what they say. A win is a win. And this win kept our playoff hopes alive.