Central, Scott City try to build win streaks

Football players at Central and Scott City went to practice on Monday with thoughts of forming a winning streak for the first time this season.

The Tigers (1-3) broke into the win column on Thursday with a 14-6 home win over Normandy. Scott City (1-3) also picked up its first win at home, rallying for a 26-20 win over Brentwood.

Despite 11 penalties which helped halt several promising drives, Central still managed to squeak by a weak Normandy squad in week four. The Tigers know they will have to be much sharper this week against a 4-0 SLUH team.

"We're going to have to have another good week [of practice]," Central senior Ty Craft said. "We definitely have to come with a full game against them."

Central managed only 14 points in a winning effort, but was able to move the ball. The Tigers had two drives move inside Normandy's 10-yard line, only to come away without points. The Tigers failed on two field-goal attempts, with one blocked and the other sailing wide.

Hykeem Hammonds led Central with 97 yards rushing on 23 carries. Sophomore quarterback Garrett Stevens threw for 150 yards with a touchdown and an interception.

"Those were hard-earned yards," Brookins said of Hammonds. "Hykeem did a good job when he had some room to run."

Central's defense, which had allowed 98 points in three games, had its most complete effort of the season. The Tigers had four takeaways in the game, matching their season total, and had three interceptions after going without an interception over the first three games.

"We didn't play our best game, but we stayed together, kept playing hard and came out on top," Craft said.

Scott City's offense stepped up in its win over Brentwood. The Rams had two 100-yard rushers in Jonathan Barr and Cody Carlyle, and sophomore quarterback Ethan Watkins threw for 148 yards in his first start.

The Rams trailed 20-14 after three quarters before rallying for the win.

"We felt like all through the game we got better as a team," Barr said.

Added Flannigan: "We'll take the win any way we can get it. It's a good boost for them."