Magnolia to take on Trojans

Magnolia is in the same 5A-South Conference predicament it was a year ago.

The Panthers are winless in league play and desperately needing a victory to keep any hopes of a state playoff berth alive.

A year ago on its home field, the Panthers got that first conference win against the Trojans.

Senior Kadyn Roach had a huge night rushing the ball for 174 yards, while classmates Octavius Smith, Payton Campbell and Terry Lambert all scored touchdowns.

They jumped out to a 21-0 first quarter lead and never looked back.

But Hot Springs has a history of playing the Panthers tough on their home field, despite the records.

In 2016, the last time Magnolia visited the Spa City, the Trojans shocked the Panthers with a 28-13 victory. The Panthers made too many errors during the contest and were never able to recover.

Following last week’s loss to Camden Fairview, head coach John Panter said he likes his team’s attitude.

“We fell behind 14-0 early, but kept coming out and making plays,” said Panter.

Magnolia responded with two scores of its own to cut the lead to 14-13, but gave up two third-quarter touchdowns to the Cardinals.

“The difference last week was that they made the plays and we didn’t. Moral victories do sting, but I don’t put much stock in them,” said Panter. He added that players and coaches are dejected right now, but “I am extremely proud of these guys for not quitting.”

Last week, Hot Springs rallied from behind on a pair of fourth quarter touchdowns to defeat the De Queen Leopards 22-10 at Hot Springs.

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