By: Elizabeth Ruckel

The Flying Squadron appeared to have rebounded their season with a 56-38 victory over 3A Beulah High School Friday night.

The Squadron can secure a playoff berth with a victory either this Friday night against Loachapoka or next Friday night against Notasulga.

Going into the game Friday night, the Flying Squadron came out determined and ready to take home a win.

In the first quarter, senior running back Chase Mansmann made the first touchdown of the night, tying the game up 7-7.

“Offensively there were many bright spots. The ball was run very well Friday night and special teams did great. We played with a lot of emotion and we came out in the second half strong,” said Highland Home Head Coach Greg Baker

“That is a big improvement for us. There’s always room for improvement, but I’m pleased with the way the guys played against Beulah.”

Sophomore quarterback, Daniel Phillips made a 27-yard pass for a touchdown to sophomore wide receiver Treyton McGough.

“We are happy that we won Friday night but we still have things to improve on,” McGough said.

“Our offense was good but we need to improve our tackling. This week the coaches have a good plan and we are really confident in it. Loachapoka doesn’t do anything we haven’t already seen.”

Senior wide receiver, Drick Bell caught a bubble-screen and darted up the right sideline 76 yards for a touchdown. Later on as Beulah was driving to get back into the game, Bell intercepted an errant pass and returned it 96 yards for his fourth touchdown of the night, putting the game out of reach.

“I was proud of the defensive effort, even though we need to sure up our tackling. We look forward to improve this week as we play a physical bunch. This is a huge game with a playoff spot on the line,” said assistant coach Will Pouncey.

Junior right guard Forrest Giddens is excited about the win Friday night as he comments, “Winning Friday night has really boosted our confidence. We know what we have to improve on and can’t wait to get back on the field this Friday against Loachapoka.”

Baker is ready for this week’s game against Loachapoka High School.

“We’re going to have to tackle and be aggressive this week. This is the most important game that has been played at our stadium in a very long time,” Baker said.

“They’re a good team and they have bigger boys, but they are beatable.”

Highland Home will host this Friday night’s game against Loachapoka High School. This game is another chance into playoff territory. The Flying Squadron is 2-2 in the region and 3-5 in their season.