In Nov. 12 IssueThe Russell County football season came to an end last Friday night as the Lakers fell to the undefeated Lone Oak Purple Flash, 59-27, in the first round of the 4A state playoffs.
Lone Oak scored on their second play from scrimmage and controlled the game throughout, despite some big performances from the Laker offense.
The Purple Flash defense had not been scored on in three games, but the Lakers found paydirt four times on one of the top teams in the state. Big offensive games from Taylor Hutchison, Jordan Best, Nick Britt, Martin Cross and Jeron Hammond kept the Lakers close despite Purple Flash running back Matt Starks and quarterback Cameron Looper having career nights.
Starks ran for 211 yards and three touchdowns while Looper passed for 327 yards and four scores. A 35-point second quarter for Lone Oak sealed the Laker's fate.
Congratulations to Coach Bill Sharp and the Lakers for a successful 2009.