FERRIDAY — Tackling drills was one of the focuses for the Huntington School football team during its practice Wednesday.

After a 53-24 defeat at the hands of Central Private last Friday, Hounds coach Chad Harkins said his team is getting back to the basics.

“Were just trying to fine-tune everything,” Harkins said. “We’ve got to work on our tackling and get in shape in order to play well for four quarters.”

By the fourth quarter of last Friday’s game, Harkins said his team wore out. Despite the let-up, he also said he liked that his players didn’t just quit when they couldn’t give 100 percent physically.

“We have a lot of young guys on our team, and they fought hard the whole game,” Harkins said.

“They got fatigued mentally and physically, but they kept fighting hard. Right now, we just have to get into better shape both physically and mentally. I think the mental part will come after the physical improvement.”

During Wednesday’s practice, Harkins said the overall team spirit of his players has been upbeat throughout the week.

“Our spirit’s fine,” Harkins said. “Everyone understands that we’re young and have to get in shape. They’re just going to have to be willing to pay the price.”

The Hounds’ eyes are now on Claiborne Academy, Huntington’s next opponent. The Hounds will face off against Claiborne at 7 p.m. Friday.

Huntington running back Eric Bowens, who accounted for all four of his team’s touchdowns against Central Private, said there were things in his game he wants to do better to help his team win against Claiborne.

“I have to run harder and hold onto the football,” Bowens said. “I can’t afford to fumble.”

Bowens, however, is playing catch up in practice after missing workouts Monday and Tuesday.

“I just started back with the team because my mom had surgery,” Bowens said. “I’m just getting used to everything again and trying to catch up.”

Bowens also said he’s been hearing a lot about conditioning this week from the coaches.

“They’re having us run more,” Bowens said. “We have to get in shape, especially since we have a lot of guys who play on both sides of the ball.”

Harkins said good conditioning would be a key in the game against Claiborne, as well as the rest of the season.

“We have to be able to play at full speed through the whole game,” Harkins said. “Hopefully that will shape itself by the time we start district play.”

Harkins also stressed the challenge his offensive line will have against Claiborne in the trenches.

“They’re known for their big lineman, and overall size,” Harkins said. “I’m not sure if they have the team speed that Central Private had, but our young offensive line will have to be ready.”