Fighting like 'Cats and 'Dogs

By Staff
Mike Self FCT Sports Editor
Prior to this year, the rivalry between Belgreen and Phil Campbell was confined to regular season play and a potential meeting in the Franklin County Tournament.
That was before the Bulldogs moved up from Class 1A to 2A and the Bobcats dropped down a level from Class 3A before this season.
Nothing like being relocated to the same neighborhood to add a little spice to the rivalry.
Both teams landed in Area 16, placing more emphasis on the regular season meetings and also creating the potential for an even more important matchup at season's end.
That possibility will become a reality tonight when the two teams face off in the semifinals of the Class 2A, Area 16 tournament at Red Bay.
A win earns a spot in Monday's championship and guarantees at least two more games. A loss means the season–and for the numerous seniors on both teams, their high school career–is over.
Belgreen and Phil Campbell are meeting for the fourth time this season, with the Bulldogs holding a 2-1 edge so far.
The Bobcats drew first blood in this year's series, opening their season with a 69-59 win at Belgreen on November 19.
The Bulldogs bounced back to earn a 46-43 win in Phil Campbell on December 3.
The third meeting of the season between the two teams took place in the semifinals of the county tournament, with Belgreen pulling away in the second half for a 59-49 win.
As the teams prepare to meet for a fourth time, Pounders downplayed the issue of familiarity.
The two teams have contrasting styles on offense. Belgreen likes to pound the ball inside to post players Avis Smith and Josh Smith, while Phil Campbell relies more heavily on the three-point shot.
The Bobcats typically have at least four perimeter shooters on the floor, with Eric Glasgow, Griffin Harris, Cody Garrison and Matt Thomas all posing a threat from beyond the arc.
Reserves Jerry Jenkins and Randy Cochran can also hit the three.
Pounders said that rebounding and defense were the keys in Belgreen's two wins over Phil Campbell thus far.
Senior point guard Nathan Hamilton is the team's leading scorer, but both Avis Smith and Josh Smith have enjoyed big nights against Phil Campbell this season.
The Bulldogs also get major contributions from Andrew Cansler, Josh Dobbs, Colby Barnett and Will Richardson.
The Bulldogs are hoping to use the area tournament as redemption for a frustrating season that has seen them lose several close games, including three in overtime.
A regional tournament berth would help wash away the bad taste.
In recent local action:
Hackleburg 54 Vina 49, OT
Ryan Umfress led Vina with 15 points in Tuesday's loss at the Class 1A, Area 14 tournament.
Blake Patterson added 11 points.