The same goes for getting ready for a big game, and the Rock Hill Redmen don’t plan to let this big game get away from them like they did two weeks ago.

Tuesday, September 21, 1999

The same goes for getting ready for a big game, and the Rock Hill Redmen don’t plan to let this big game get away from them like they did two weeks ago.

Rock Hill hosts the Wellston Golden Rockets Friday and the game could prove very important toward securing a postseason playoff berth.

The Redmen faced a similar key game two weeks ago but lost 41-8 at Oak Hill. Wellston, 1-3, took a 42-19 beating at the hands of Oak Hill last week.

Rock Hill coach Andy Hall said his team seems to be taking a different approach this time.

"We learned a lesson about getting ready for a big game. This is a game we’ve been pointing toward for a while," Hall said.

The "pointing" toward this game may be surfaced long before the start of the season. Wellston beat Rock Hill 66-19 last season, leaving starters in the game until the end and throwing for two-point conversions after the final three touchdowns.

The Golden Rockets are almost strictly a run-oriented team. The backfield features sophomore fullback Brian Young (6-foot, 195 pounds), senior tailback Chris Hutchinson (5-11, 175), and senior wingback Shawn Brennan (5-8, 175).

Hall said stopping the trio will be a great challenge for the defense.

"Their fullback (Young) has been out the last two weeks along with a couple of other kids, and they’ll be back this week," Hall said.

"Ohio U. is recruiting the Hutchinson kid real hard. Brennan is a combination of the fullback and tailback. They can all run and they’re strong."

Hutchinson and Brennan were members of the Wellston 4×100 meter relay team that qualified for the state track meet last spring.

Young, who also plays middle linebacker, gained 250 yards in a 35-24 win over Minford.

Hall said Wellston’s skill level speed reminds him of Chesapeake, next week’s opponent.

"Those three aren’t as fast as (Chesapeake’s Robbie) Isaacs, but they’re faster than their other backs. They don’t do a whole lot. They just line up and say ‘Stop us.’ So that’s what we’re going to try and do," said Hall.

Few injuries are plaguing the Redmen. Johnny Webb has a bad foot but should play. Defensive end Donald Delong suffered a broken wrist but will be fitted for a soft cast and is expected to play against Wellston.

Hall said both teams could expect some bumps and bruises this week.

"They’re physical and like to hit, but our kids will be fired up. They like to hit, too," Hall said.

The interior line is led by tackles Mike Ewing (6-3, 275) and Tory Meade (6-0, 260).

The quarterback is Jawn Fortner (5-8,1 160). He was only 16 of 55 passing last season.