L-K falls late to Harleton, prepares for Clarksville

By Tammy Simmons

The L-K varsity football team traveled to Harleton Friday night for their first pre-season game of the 2016 season. 
The Tigers led at half-time with a score of 35-30, but just couldn’t hold the Wildcats down in the second half as the home team went on to win by a final score of 53-35.
The score board showed a defeat, but the Tigers were well aware that they played with all of their hearts.
“We played hard. Just kind of ran out of gas late in the game,” Head Football coach and Athletic Director Derek Simmons said.  
Junior quarterback Marty Johnson led his team throwing for 26 times with 11 completions for a total of 165 total yards passing.  Johnson was 1-for-4 in point after attempts. 
Junior Ja’Kevian Rose had four receptions for a total of 128 yards leading his team in reception yards.  Rose also rushed for nine yards.
On the other side of the ball, the defense had an eventful night with 76 tackles, three interceptions and a safety to help add to the Tiger’s score.
Sophomore Ty Patterson led the Tigers with 13 total tackles followed up by sophomore Traccer Henry with 11 and freshman LaDavian Johnson with eight.
Senior Marcus Jones had a touchdown on special teams and senior Cortez Peterson earned a safety for the Tigers. 
L-K is looking forward to Friday’s upcoming game where they will meet up with the Clarksville Tigers at 7:30 p.m.
Clarksville lost their opener 10-0 after lightning forced officials to cancel the game altogether. 
“We are looking forward to getting better in all phases of the game,” Simmons said.  “We plan on playing with the same heart and desire.”