By Kadin Pounders

For the FCT

The Russellville Golden Tigers fell to rival Muscle Shoals in the Times Daily Classic Saturday night.

The Golden Tigers took an early lead in the first quarter but the Trojans quickly overtook Russellville and never surrendered the lead.

The Trojans took advantage of Russellville’s turnovers and fouls to win 63-49.

“Right at the end we played a little better but we’re still not playing smart,” Russellville head coach Michael Smith said.

“We were throwing it more to [Muscle Shoals] than we were to [our teammates].”

Russellville’s Tyler Willis led the Golden Tigers with 13 points including three three-pointers. Chris Owens also hit double digits with 11 points. Muscle Shoals’ Blair Montgomery led all scorers with 15 points.

Russellville scoring rounded out with seven points from Austin Stidham, six points from Juwan White, five points from Christian Foster, three points from Colby Tompkins, two points from Jalen Scott, and one point each from Colton Hargett and Adonis Bailey.

“I liked our effort better than the last two games,” Smith said.

“We have to work to get mentally ready and cut our mistakes down.”

“[Tonight’s] game doesn’t really count. Next week’s game is more important.”

Russellville will face Muscle Shoals again at their next home game on Dec. 13 at 7:30 p.m.