By JOSHUA ETHRIDGE / For the Reporter

The Thompson High School Warriors hoped to continue their strong season going as they hosted the Prattville High School Lions, Sept. 20. Those hopes were dashed as the Lions cruised to a 42-7 victory.

Right out of the gate, Prattville was able to set the tone for the game. After Thompson’s first drive resulted in a punt, the Lions were able to put together an 82-yard touchdown drive. The score came on a 65-yard passing play from quarterback Kalen Whitlow to wide receiver Tyrie Moore. The extra point gave the Lions a 7-0 lead with 6:27 left in the first quarter.

Minutes later, PHS forced a fumble deep in Thompson territory. However, the Warrior defense was able to prevent a score by forcing a missed field goal attempt.

Mistakes continued to bite Thompson. After a holding penalty, the Warriors could not move the ball and were forced to punt.

On their next drive, Prattville took only three plays to get on the board again. This time it was a 27-yard touchdown pass from Whitlow to wide receiver Seth Knotts. After the extra point the Lions lead 14-0 with 11:24 left in the half.

Four plays later, the Warriors committed another turnover in their own territory. Prattville receiver Jimmie Stoudenmire hauled in a 33-yard touchdown catch on the following play. The extra point gave PHS a 21-0 lead with 10:15 left in the half.

As halftime approached, Thompson was able to gain some offensive momentum. They moved the ball 56-yards down the field, but fumbled on the Prattville 4-yard line.

The Lions went into the half with a 21-0 lead.

Prattville got on the board again coming out of the half. They were able to put together an eight-play drive, capped off by a 1-yard touchdown run by Kingston Davis. The Lions extended their lead to 28-0 following the extra point.

Thompson scored their lone touchdown on the next possession. The score came on a 1-yard run by Dee Tolbert. The extra point was successful making the score 28-7, advantage Lions.

After the Thompson score Prattville put their offense in cruise control, milking as much time as possible off the clock. They were able to score two more touchdowns to end the game with a 42-7 victory.

Despite the loss, Coach Mike Montgomery believes the game will have a positive impact on his team.

“I think we learned a lot about ourselves tonight,” said Montgomery. “We found out we are not where we want to be and because of that it gives us an opportunity to go back and improve.”

Thompson hosts Shades Valley next Friday, Sept. 27.