Don’t worry: FMS boys take control early against Hawks
HARDIN VALLEY — Farragut Middle School boys basketball head coach Lynn Allen thought his team might face a tough challenge as it made the short trip to face Turkey Creek rival Hardin Valley last week.
As his squad entered the gym, Allen issued a warning to his players. “You better be ready because this is going to be a war.”
But as it turned out, the coach didn’t have much to worry about, as his team ran past the Hawks 51-24 Thursday, Nov, 9.
Farragut opened a 12-5 lead by the end of the first quarter and just kept building on its advantage.
The Admirals turned up the defensive pressure against the Hawks. That was exactly what Allen wanted to see, especially after a lackluster defensive effort against Karns in the team’s league opener last week. “We played better tonight, and it’s all about defense for us,” the Admirals skipper said.
“We have a great group of young men and they’re working hard,” Allen added. “We’ll see how the Lord blesses that. We’re looking to grow closer as a team and as a family.”
Braylen Gibbs and Brooks Johnston carried the bulk of the offensive load for the Ads. Gibbs scored a game-high 24 points, including 14 in the first half. Johnston added 12.
For the Admirals, the impressive win gave them temporary possession of the Gold Turkey trophy.
Hardin Valley head coach Alexander Oliver said his team must “keep learning and keep getting better” before the rematch at FMS Monday, Dec. 18.
Charlie Gibson led HVMS with 10 points and Kristian Oliver finished with eight. They combined to make four 3-pointers.
