Evangel off to 2-0 start

Published 2:07 am Saturday, August 23, 2008

Coming off a huge 60-point performance in the first week against Hope Christian, the Evangel Lightning were riding high Friday and continued that wave in an impressive come-from-behind victory over Shiloh Hills of Kennesaw, Ga., 22-8.

Trailing by two at the half, the Lightning was able to rally and shut out Shiloh in the second half.

We weren’t playing well at all,” Evangel head coach Steve Dean said of his team’s first-half performance. “We kind of settled down at half time.”

Although Evangel turned the ball over several times by fumbling or throwing interceptions, Dean said it was the Lightning’s defense that helped secure the win.

Dean noted the play of Luke Webb, Wesley Dean and Collin Hipps, who finished with three sacks, as players who stood out for the Lightning defense.

On offense, Hunter Burridge added to his rushing attack from last week with a touchdown.

Although the Lightning cruised to victory in week one but struggled this week, Dean said the close game was a good wake-up call for his team.

“It’s a game we needed,” Dean said. “We needed a tough game against a good opponent.”

The Lightning travel to West Blocton on Friday to take on Tri County. Kickoff is at 7 p.m.