CAPSHAW— Jeff Pugh doesn’t need to be told how tough Class 5A, Region 8 is. He already knows.

Through six games this season, East Limestone has been in the game with every team they’ve played through the first half. However, it’s the second half that hasn’t been so friendly.

Whether it’s been fatigue, not having enough depth or just making mistakes, it’s cost the Indians the games they’ve lost and Pugh knows that. That’s why every day, he and his coaching staff stress playing four quarters and playing with consistency.

“I think the kids know some of the mistakes and breakdowns that we’ve had in the second half this season,” Pugh said. “ Last week against Lee, we feel like we got better as a second half team. We didn’t make the mistakes, we moved the football and got the points that we were supposed to get.

“We created some turnovers on defense and got the ball away from them. Our seniors really responded well because they know the playoffs are on the line. Everybody played well and played hard for each other and that’s what were hoping for this week, that they’ll stay focused on the playoffs because they know what our chances are right now.”

It’s no doubt that tonight’s homecoming game against Muscle Shoals will be a close one. The Trojans have improved every week, holding Russellville to only 20 points last week. And according to Pugh, whichever team has the momentum going their way is going to be the team that comes away with the win.

“Muscle Shoals played the dog out of Russellville last week,” Pugh said. “This game is going to come down to what most close games come down to – momentum, and that comes from turnovers, penalties, and being able to execute offensively and defensively.

“I think we have a good plan, but they’ll be playing for us too. It’s going to come down to the kids and who makes the most mistakes. With the people we have on our schedule, you’ve got to be able to play four quarters and at least have some consistency or your not going to be able to beat the teams on your schedule, and that’s what we’ve got to do.”