Freedom Academy handed Evangel Christian its first defeat of the season Friday as the Lightning suffered several injuries in the 42-20 loss.

Freedom’s Germarious Chandler proved to the be the difference in the game as he accounted for five touchdowns — two on the ground, two on punt returns and one interception return.

Chandler had runs of 61 and 24 yards for Freedom, while quarterback Will Stewart had a 75-yard touchdown run.

Evangel (6-1, 3-0) was short-handed for most of the contest as wide receiver/linebacker Collin Hipps was knocked out in the first quarter with a concussion, while quarterback Henry Foster was knocked out and taken to the hospital in the second quarter.

The Lightning did get an offensive spark from running backs Hunter Burridge and Michael Entrekin. Burridge rushed 10 times for 89 yards and three touchdowns, while Entrekin rushed eight times for 75 yards.

Defensively for Evangel, Luke Webb had 11 tackles, while Wesley Dean and A.J. Richardson each had five.

The Lightning returns to region play Friday as they play host to Ballard. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m.