NATCHEZ — It has been a tough year for Adams County Christian School.

The Rebels bring an 0-7 record into Friday night’s home game against Porter’s Chapel and the season doesn’t expect to get any easier against the 5-2 Eagles.

However, to ACCS coach Paul Hayles, the record is not an indication of how hard the team has worked this season.

“This is a great group of guys to work with,” Hayles said. “We’re in a tough scenario trying to build a program but the kids’ attitude and work ethic are outstanding.”

Hayles pointed to last week’s 35-6 loss to Parklane as an example.

“Parklane is one of the best teams in the state,” Hayles said. “But our kids came out and gave a great effort and never quit. We’re just falling short on execution. If we could ever put it all together, it would be a major step.”

This Friday would be a good week to put it all together, as Porter’s Chapel comes into the game with a four-game winning streak, including a 35-22 win over Heidelberg Academy last week.

The Eagles are led by the backfield duo of quarterback Matt Cranfield and tailback Austin Barber.

“Their quarterback has a great arm,” Hayles said. “He can throw it a country mile. And (Baber) has really shined as their tailback. He’ll be tough to stop.”

A good note for the Rebels is they get noseguard Brandon Stowers back for this game.

Stowers has been out several weeks with a shoulder injury.

With a playoff berth and a winning season out of the question, Hayles said his goal for the Rebels is to continue to improve.

“We’re going to continue to work hard and let the cards fall where they will,” Hayles said. “We’re setting the foundation for the future. The discipline and work ethic will help build this program.”