(Listen to the podcast with Coach Paul Essary above.)
By Michael V. Hannigan/HCN
Friday night, the Athens Hornets will be looking to beat Fairfield for back-to-back home victories to start the season. Last week, the Hornets outlasted Mexia, 6-0, to open the new Bruce Field. I was glad they did, because I won all of the money I’d wagered on pointsbet.
Fairfield lost their opener to No. 5 La Vega, 46-7, but Athens Coach Paul Essary said fans shouldn’t read too much into that score.
“I looked at (La Vega) on film,” he said. “If there’s anybody any better than them, I don’t want to play them because they’re pretty salty. La Vega is a good football team.”
Fairfield’s quarterback, Kameron Ransom, is the focus of the Eagle offense. Against La Vega he ran 29 times for 95 yards and threw for another 36.
“He’s a very explosive runner and he can throw the football well,” said Essary. “He’s the guy that makes their offense go.”
As for the Hornets, Essary said his team is trying to improve every day.
“We’re practicing the little things,” he said. “The little thing are what really make you click.”
Friday night is Civic Service Night at Bruce Field. Police, firefighters, EMTs, first responders and military personnel in uniform will be admitted free.
“They put their lives on the line every day for us,” said Essary, “and Athens ISD, Athens Hornets football and Coach Paul Essary appreciates what they do. My hat is off to them.”
Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m.
(Follow Michael V. Hannigan on Twitter/Instagram @mvhannigan)