Following a tough loss at home to Elba, the Goshen Eagles are looking to get back on the right track in region play against the Central-Hayneville Lions.

The Eagles were unable to get much going on either offense or defense against the Tigers. Coach Bart Snyder chalked the loss up to poor execution. “We just didn’t execute well against Elba,” Snyder said. “We missed a lot of tackles. I can’t understand what took place Friday night. It was like Pike County all over again.”

Goshen is coming up against a Central-Hayneville team that won its first game in seven years last week against Zion Chapel. Snyder said his team is not underestimating the Lions. “They’re very talented. The have as much talent as anyone we have ever played,” Snyder said. “When you give a team like that the chance to feel better about themselves and build some confidence, they start to believe they can win any game.”

Snyder said that his defense was especially concerned about slowing down the Lions’ offense. Central has averaged 26 points a game on offense during their last three region games. “They run several formations, and they line up well,” Snyder said. “They run the spread, the wing-T, and the I-backfield. We’re focusing on tackling and following through in practice this week.

Goshen’s week of practice has made Snyder optimistic about his team’s chances on the road. “We had a better week of practice this week,” Snyder said. “I can’t explain why we do so well in practice but fail to put it together on the field.”

Goshen and Central-Hayneville have only met once before. Last year, Goshen handled the Lions 42-14 at the Eagles’ Nest.

Kickoff is set for Friday at 7 p.m. in Hayneville.