HURRICANE – Huntington struggled to get back in high gear but did take care of business Friday night in a 44-18 Mountain State Athletic Conference win over an improving Hurricane team at Redskins Stadium.
Huntington came out of the gate a little slow, and Hurricane took advantage with two long plays to make it close in the first half. However, in the second half the Highlanders began to take control defensively to pull away.
The Highlanders (2-1) came in as the No. 9 team in the Class AAAA playoff ratings.
“We were sloppy tonight and didn’t play with any energy in the first half,” said Highlander coach Billy Seals. “We have to learn to play 48 minutes in order to be a good football team. Growing pains right now, but always like winning more than losing. We are 2-1 and have an opportunity to get better Monday morning.”
The first half was a battle of sluggish offenses, with the Highlanders managing one drive in the opening stanza that resulted in Mayshaun Okonkwo receiving a touchdown toss from quarterback Marek Midkiff for a 7-0 lead.
However, the Redskins came to life in the second quarter when Riley Armstrong returned a punt 50 yards for a score, getting his team back in the game ...