While some called Hattiesburg’s 60-18 drubbing of Wayne County Friday night a statement win, Tiger head coach Tony Vance saw it as just another win. Another dominant one for his Tigers, who improved to 8-0 overall and 4-0 in district play.
“I call it the next win on the schedule, man,” Vance said. “We’re just happy to get it and move to 4-0 in division play. Proud of our guys. We started out sluggish and slow. But we came out in the second half and played the way I expect them to play.”
Despite numerous penalties in the first half, Vance’s Tigers took a 26-6 lead into halftime. They outscored the War Eagles 27-0 in the third quarter and 34-12 in the entire second half.
“In the second half, I thought we played Hattiesburg Tiger football,” Vance added.
Jarod Conner was the constant for the Tigers. The junior quarterback continued his impressive season, as he accounted for six total touchdowns (2 passing, 4 rushing). He finished with 236 rushing yards.
“He’s been comfortable playing quarterback,” Vance said. “That’s where we need him to be this time of the year.”
The Tiger defense also appears to be peaking at the right time. With their varsity starters in the game, they only allowed six points from the War Eagles, who put up 49 the week before against Long Beach.
“A lot of people does not mention our defense, but our defense is doing a heckuva job,” Vance said. “For our varsity guys to hold them to six points, that’s pretty good defense.”
Whether it be on defense or offense, the penalties remain a concern for Vance and company, and it’s something they will address moving forward.
“There were a lot of penalties. Little things like that we have to clean up and fix. If we want to get to where we want to be, you can’t do those things.”
Aside from Conner’s standout performance, the Tigers were aided by two touchdown runs from Drexlan Allen. Also, touchdown receptions from Darius Ruffin and Dandre Humbles. Humbles added a kickoff return for a touchdown in the fourth quarter.
Hattiesburg (8-0) travels to Picayune (7-1) next week. The game will likely decide who wins Region 4-5A.
Wayne County (4-4) will look to bounce back at Stone (4-3). The War Eagles were led in Friday’s game by Joshua Page, who scored that lone touchdown against the Tiger varsity defense.
