To put it bluntly, nothing sets the tone for homecoming like a Scouts victory.
The Lake Forest Scouts hosted the Zion Benton Bees last Friday with a final score of 28-24.
Pressure was high amongst the Scouts due to a two game loosing slump. But players and coaches turned up the heat and renewed intensity back on to the field, showing up for Homecoming week.
“A lot of stuff that we’ve been running is the same stuff it’s just getting better as an offense in executing it…it’s tough especially with a lot of guys playing both ways it’s more just getting reps at it and gelling as an offense,” Offensive coordinator Dylan Johnson said.
On a 2nd and 15, senior captain Braden Hoskins had a 21 yard running touchdown to start the half. Shortly after, it became rocky for the Scouts as they mustered up only 7 points while their defense gave up another 17.
Halftime served as a reset button for the Scouts. They used their time in the locker room to regroup and focus on adjustments.
“In the locker room we were talking about focusing and executing and if you do those two things, you win anything,” Hoskins said.
The Scouts returned to the field and came out with renewed energy- and it was adamant. The impact of three key defensive players: Gavin Nelson, George Holland and Adler Schlacher were seen in the second half.
Schlacher led the team in tackles, with three solo tackles and an additional three tackles for losses.
The fourth quarter was peak entertainment as tensions were high. The defense played with a chip on their shoulder causing two forced fumbles in the quarter. Senior Gavin Nelson and junior George Holland came up with crucial turnovers, setting up the Scouts to regain possession and ultimately secure the win.
When driving the ball, the Scouts were moving. Junior Emmett Heaton, the Scouts new wide receiver, made his presence clear and found his clique.
“With losing Hiam and Burger earlier in the season, having Heaton come over from defense was huge for us because he played offense the whole summer and I was able to build chemistry with him so right away when he came over, we were able to dial up and give the ball to him,” Hoskins said.
The Scouts captain and two way standout James Eliott made his mark as well, scoring a pivotal touchdown and making things happen on the defense.
The big comeback win for the Scouts this homecoming predicts greater things for the team going into the remainder of the season.
