Familiar foe

By Staff
Mike Self FCT Sports Editor
Russellville coach Perry Swindall isn't placing too much emphasis on the Golden Tigers' 35-17 victory over Athens five weeks ago.
In fact, as Russellville prepares to face the Golden Eagles again in this week's 5A semifinals, Swindall would prefer that his players forget all about that previous meeting.
The Golden Tigers (12-1) delivered the knockout blow back on October 29, when they scored 28 unanswered points against Athens to wipe out an early 10-7 deficit.
Swindall has cautioned his players about reading too much into that game.
Swindall has noticed some changes in the Golden Eagles (8-5), who seem to be peaking at just the right time.
Athens coach Allen Creasy said that a more balanced offensive attack has been key to his team's playoff run.
Creasy pointed to the performances of tailback Jeremie Slaughter and wideouts Nick Pickett and Jonathan Johnson as keys to the Golden Eagles' improved production.
Sophomore quarterback Rob Ezell has also stepped to the forefront during the playoffs, throwing game-winning touchdown passes in the final minute against Pinson Valley in the first round and Fairfield last week.
Ezell finished 15-of-21 for 191 yards against Fairfield.
Creasy said the Golden Eagles' last-minute wins have given them more confidence.
Creasy has been impressed with the way the Golden Tigers have progressed throughout the season.
Russellville is looking to advance to the 5A state championship game for the third straight season.