H.W. Byers Lions turn back Seminoles with 32-28 victory

H.W. Byers tuned up for the start of Region 2-1A play with a win last week over a tradition-rich football program.

The Lions, playing at home, built a big lead and then held on for a 32-28 victory over Smithville. They improved their pre-district record to 4-2.

“They (the Seminoles) have a new coach, and they’re on their way back,” said Mario Lane, head coach of the Lions. “Playing good programs like that and having success is good for our program.”

Byers surged ahead 26-7 at halftime and led 32-13 before Smithville got a couple of late scores to cut its deficit to 3226.

“We closed the game out by taking a safety,” Lane said, “and it was a big win for us going into district competition this week.”

Corey Willis was nine of 12 passing for 198 yards and three touchdowns. KeSean Lafrance carried the football 18 times for 108 yards and two touchdowns. Anterrio Guy had three receptions for 50 yards a touchdown. Leading the Byers defense was Jessie Hughes with 12 tackles, one tackle for loss, two forced fumbles and one fumble recovery. Also turning in strong nights on the defensive side of the football were Andreco O’neal with 13 tackles, two tackles for loss, and Guy with nine tackles, one tackle for loss, and an interception.

The Lions’ two losses were to Class 4A Rosa Fort and Class 3A North Panola. They defeated 4A Byhalia and 3A Holly Springs. “Playing those bigger schools helped us to be a little more prepared for games like last week (versus Smithville),” Lane said. “We’re getting better every week. The game against Smithville is what a playoff game feels like. You’re going to get everybody’s best swing, and you better be ready to counter-punch.”

Byers opens district play this Friday night by visiting cross-county rival Potts Camp. The Lions also have a chance to go undefeated against county foes on their schedule. The Cardinals come into the game with a 2-3 record.

“You can throw records away in this one and in all the district games,” Lane said. “Everybody is 0-0. We’re going to get everybody’s best going forward.”