Because of new rules voted on by coaches last year, the Madison High School Jaguars clash with the Ferriday Trojans Tues., Jan. 4, in Tallulah did not count toward Madison’s district record. What it did do, however, is give the Jaguars a 16-1 record and the No. 1 ranking in Class 2A, District 2.
The Jags’ 69-45 win over the Trojans came after a game in which MHS led for all four quarters and Jaguars Head Coach John Holmes said his team now has to deal with mental aspect of being on top of the mountain midway through the season.
“I just don’t want our kids to become complacent and relaxed,” Holmes said. “You’ve got a target on your back right now, so they just have to keep doing what’s important to win and take it one game one at a time.”
The Jags did just that last week, jumping out to a slight 19-13 lead in the first period, before extending the scoring gap to nine, leading 35-26 at the half.
After three periods the Jags led the Trojans 49-36, before going on an offensive tear in the fourth to earn the decisive win.
Holmes said his team played well on both sides of the ball and kept cool heads throughout the contest, something he continued to stress will be important moving forward.
“It was a good win. It's a rivalry game. Our kids played well,” he said. “I think, defensively, we played well in spots. I think our kids did a good job and kept their composure during the game.”
The Jaguars will next face the Delhi Charter School Gators Friday night at home in Tallulah. Tipoff is scheduled for 7 p.m.
