Savage Heat look for comeback

In a high scoring shootout between two conference rivals, Valley Christian (3-2) outlasted Hot Springs 40-36 last Friday at MCPS Stadium on the campus of Big Sky High School in Missoula. Hot Springs (3-1) was powered by a huge rushing performance from quarterback Jack McAllister. The senior ran for 197 yards and two touchdowns. “The team gave great effort. Jack played really hard and ran the ball extremely well,” said Hot Springs head coach Jim Lawson. The Savage Heat also received all-around contributions from senior running back Kyle Lawson, who had 85 yards rushing, seven receptions for 67 yards and three total touchdowns.

In a back-and-forth contest, Hot Springs held a halftime lead of 22-12. Valley Christian relied on their team athleticism and running game to eventually overtake the Savage Heat in the second half. The Eagles ran for 243 yards and three touchdowns on the night. Coach Lawson recognized Valley Christian was a tough opponent. “They had a ton of speed,” he said. “Team speed overall was good. And a lot of size. Their record probably isn't a good indication of their overall athleticism which is pretty darn good.”

The Savage Heat faced an additional challenge Saturday that proved to be fun for the players. Coach Lawson noted that it was the first time the Hot Springs players have played on artificial turf. “It was an exciting experience. Some kids liked the turf, some kids didn’t.”

The Savage Heat will look to rebound on ttheir home field Friday against Gardiner at 6 p.m.