HOT SPRINGS – In their first conference game of the 2012 season, the Savage Heat football team took on the St. Regis Tigers and were able to muster a clean victory, 65-14.

Head Coach Jim Lawson explained the victory came due to a “total team effort” that had the Savage Heat well in control of the game early on.

It was also a game of firsts, as the Savage Heat scored a total of 44 points in the first half – a record, according to Coach Lawson.

“We had eight different players score touchdowns, and scored 44 points within the first quarter, which is pretty amazing,” Coach Lawson said. “With 20 kids on the team, it was nice that everybody got some playing time too.”

Players that scored touchdowns were Jarod White, who did so with a punt return run; Kamiah Payne with a 67-yard run; Anthony Byrns with a 69-yard run; Nate Gray with a fumble return for a touchdown; Mike Gray, Wyatt Nagy, Dave Cross and Tanner Hoff. 

In terms of defense, Coach Lawson indicated they coordinated well to make a difference in the pace of the game, which was set at fast, then faster as they gained momentum.

“I thought the defense played great and made big plays right away,” Coach Lawson said. “They were set up well and we had some nice tackles and interceptions.”

Lane Foster led the defense with 12 tackles, and Jimmy Holland contributed to the effective D with a lively interception.

“The starters didn’t get to really touch the ball that much in this game,” Coach Lawson said. “But everyone got some playing time, even the younger players.”

Next up for the Savage Heat is the game against Two Eagle, another conference foe, and they hope to keep the momentum going strong.