PREVIEW: Hebron Christian at Athens Christian

Staff Report (8588)

As of Thursday, October 11, 2012
© Copyright 2013 Gwinnett Daily Post

Hebron's Joe Bova

HEBRON LIONS (8-A)

Coach: Sal Battaglia

Record: 1-4, 0-2

Last week: Lost to George Walton Academy 52-10

ATHENS CHRISTIAN EAGLES (8-A)

Coach: Steve Brooks

Record: 2-4, 1-1

Last week: Beat Commerce 19-14

The Lions made some progress despite last week’s loss by finally finishing off two drives with scores for the first time since their lone win of the season a month ago.

“Last week, we were overmatched (against state-ranked George Walton Academy),” Hebron coach Sal Battaglia said. “But we actually played very well in the first half. It was probably the most aggressive first half we’ve played. We took a step forward even though we didn’t get the win. Now, I’d like to see (the effort) sustained for an entire game.”

That progress will be put to a major test by an Athens Christian team coming off an upset of then state-ranked Commerce behind 225 yards from sophomore running back Taylor Hardigree and four catches for 72 yards from receiver Levi Cummings.

But it is the Eagles’ defense, led by defensive lineman Micah Eason, that particularly concerns Battaglia.

“They seem to be very aggressive,” Battaglia said of Athens Christian. “They’re not afraid to hit you.”

The Lions will look to a physical performance from an offensive line led by junior Joe Bova and senior Ty Johnston to counter that aggression.

Last meeting: Hebron was awarded the ame by forfeit after Athens Christian won 34-8

Directions to Athens Christian High School: Highway 316 East to Loop 10/Highway 29 North and proceed 14 miles to the school. Stadium is on right approximately one mile past Athens Technical College.

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