Hounds out for revenge

By Matt Burrowes | The Natchez Democrat

Published Wednesday, November 21, 2007

FERRIDAY — The Huntington Hounds get their chance to prove the 16-12 loss to Glenbrook was just a fluke Friday when they face the Apaches for the Class A South State Championship.

Huntington head coach Chad Harkins said he felt like his team came out on the short end of some officials calls in the regular season matchup in Ferriday.

“It was a bad game,” Harkins said. “There were some bad calls made.”

Huntington suffered a critical loss in their 28-7 win over Central Hinds in last week’s playoff game.

Starting running back Jody Cottongin broke his collarbone late in the game and will be out the remainder of the playoffs.

Harkins said leaving Cottongin in the game with the outcome all but decided was a tough decision that could have been different.

“It’s one of those should’ve, would’ve, could’ve things,” Harkins said. “We needed a first down to run out the clock. He was probably left in too long but he wanted to go out there and play.”

Harkins said Cottongin’s absence would not get his team’s spirit down.

“The team knows what they have to do to win,” Harkins said. “They are playing hard and playing together. I think we are peaking at the right time.”

Harkins said they would rely on tailback Martez Tolliver and quarterback Chuck Bowie to move the ball against the Apaches.

“They have to step up,” he said. “They know it and will be ready to carry the load.”

Harkins said they would continue to use the run like they have done all year.

But despite the offensive injuries, Harkins said his defense was at full strength.

“Our defense will come ready to play,” Harkins said.

Harkins said he thought the game was going to be a dogfight to the end.

“We are ready to play,” he said. “We are focused and want to play a good game. We will have an opportunity to win.”

Kickoff is set for 7 p.m.