By NEAL WAGNER / Managing Editor

ALABASTER – The Hope Christian Eagles came up just short against the visiting Central Christian Crusaders of Sharpsburg, Ga., falling 50-45 on Sept. 5.

“It was disappointing, but I love my guys,” Hope head coach Tony Nafe said. “They went down 14 points early, and they never quit. I’m proud of them. Nobody has more heart than the Hope Christian Eagles.”

Injuries plagued the Eagles throughout the game, meaning Hope has now lost seven starters to injuries over the course of the season.

Defensive standouts for the Eagles were Zach Gramstad, who recorded 16 tackles, and Stephen Nabors, who ended the night with 10 tackles and two sacks.

On offense, Dillon Thompson ended the night with 150 rushing yards and 206 receiving yards.

Nafe heaped praise on senior Cameron Barnett, who ended the night with 10 tackles, 45 rushing yards and “played every play of the game: Defense, offense and special teams,” Nafe said.

Gramstad and Thompson added touchdowns in the second quarter and Thompson scored two touchdowns in the third quarter. Barnett added a touchdown in the fourth quarter and Thompson added two more.

The Eagles, 3-1, will travel to Auburn to take on Ballard Christian on Sept. 12.