Published: October 10, 2006 09:07 pm            

Tanner, Athens fall in latest poll; Ardmore recognized

Justin Graves — ATHENS – Tanner and Athens both played in tough football games against premier programs last week, with both the Rattlers and Golden Eagles coming up short.

Luckily, the Alabama Sports Writers Association’s prep sports voters took that into consideration when making their selections.

Athens dropped three spots from No. 2 to No. 5 after last week’s 32-19 loss to No. 1 Russellville. The Golden Tigers are followed by undefeated Eufaula at No. 2, Briarwood Christian at No. 3 and UMS-Wright at No. 4.

Athens faces another big game Friday night when No. 8-ranked Hartselle comes to town. The Tigers only loss came at the hands of Russellville earlier in the season.

“They’re a real intense football team,” Athens coach Allen Creasy said. “They play with a lot of emotion and we will have to match their intensity.”

Another Class 5, Region 8 team in J.O. Johnson almost made the top 10. The Jaguars received 39 points.

After losing to No. 3 Addison last week, Tanner fell five spots to No. 9. The Rattlers will face a struggling Hatton team Friday night.

Another local team that was recognized on this week’s poll was Ardmore (5-1,3-1). The Tigers received 6 points – 15th most in Class 4A.

Ardmore almost made the ASWA poll after starting the season 3-0, but fell to North Jackson in the fourth game.

The Tigers travel to county rival East Limestone Friday for a game that could decide the No. 2 seed in Class 4A, Region 7.

Ardmore defeated Madison County 37-14, while No. 3 North Jackson defeated East Limestone 21-14.

        

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