Hazlehurst takes over first in 7-3A with win over Jefferson County

BY BRADLEY CROW
The Hazlehurst Indians (8-1) used three interception returns for touchdowns to thump Jefferson County 40-8 in yet another tune up for a class 3A championship run.
“I thought our defense played lights out,” stated Indian head coach Randal Montgomery.  “I thought we did a great job in executing what we wanted to do and I am pleased with our performance.”
The Indians led 12-0 at the half on a 23 yard Dedrick Reese run for a touchdown and a Demetrius Cain 12 yard TD scamper.  Both kicks failed for the Indians.
The second half, the Indians poured on the pressure from the defensive side of the ball.  Xavion Thedford recorded the first of three interceptions returned for a touchdown by the Indians by snagging one for a 30 yard return.  The Kenneth Coleman run on the two point play put the score 20-0.  
Running back Aaron Larry gave the Indians a 26-0 lead after a 16 yard carry for a touchdown.  Demetrius Cain ran the two point conversion to grow the lead to 28-0.  
The last two Indian scores were off two more interception returns.  The first was a Dedrick Reese 53 yard return for an interception and then Xavion Thedford picked another for a 62 yard return for score.  The Indians dominated the game defensively and closed the books 40-8 on the Tigers of Jefferson County.
Quarterback Jarvis Warner led the Indians on the ground with 11 rushes for 76 yards while Cain pounded out 74 on 11 carries with a touchdown.  Defensively, Thedford had two interceptions returned for a score and 6 tackles.  Jonkil Skipper had 10 tackles while Demond Tucker went off with 9 tackles, a sack, and a blocked punt.
The Indians entertain Crystal Springs Friday night  at 7:00 in a Copiah County rivalry game.  “Our guys just view it as another game,” stated Montgomery.  “That is how we prepare.”
REGION 7-3A STANDINGS
Hazlehurst      8-1, 4-0
Franklin Co.    7-3, 3-1
Wilkinson Co. 5-4, 2-2
Jefferson Co.  3-7, 2-2
Crystal Springs 4-5, 1-3
Prentiss           1-9, 0-4