China Spring stands in way of history for Kirbyville
By JIMMY GALVAN Managing Editor

There will be a little more at stake this week for the Kirbyville Wildcats when they hit the field against China Springs at Kyle Field Friday night.

Sure, both squads will be looking to advance in the Class 3A playoffs but Kirbyville will also be looking for their first victory in the regional semi-finals ever.

"This is the farthest we have ever made it," said Kirbyville Head Football Coach Jack Alvarez. "We have been to this round twice but never won in it. I think 11- 2 is the best record Kirbyville has ever had so we have a lot to play for this week."

With a victory over China Spring, Kirbyville will post its 12th win of the season against only one loss.

"There is a lot of pride within our community that is giving our kids some motivation in this game," Alvarez said.

China Spring is out of District 17-3A and will feature a 4-3 defensive scheme and two definite offensive threats in quarterback Dustin Eskew and receiver Mike Hicks.

"Everybody is talented this time of the year," Alvarez said. "Defensively, they will give you a lot of looks out of a 4-3 defense. Offensively, they have a real talented quarterback who has mobility and (Hicks) is a real talented guy on offense for them."

In fact, the Eskew-Hicks tandem is known as the best quarterback-wide receiver pair out of Central Texas.

'They're good and we are going to know where they are at all night long," Alvarez said.

Offensively, Alvarez said he would not vary from his game plan that has been in use all season long.

"We like to throw to get ahead and run to win it," Alvarez said. "We want them to back off of us by throwing the ball."

The Cougars will come in with only one loss on their resume and that came at the hands of Waco La Vega in district play.

"We know what they can do," Alvarez said. "We will be prepared for them."

Alvarez knows his squad has lost a day and half of preparation in taking on China Springs but he expects his Wildcats to respond Friday at Kyle Field.

"We have to stay real focused now," Alvarez said. "Physically, I think we can match-up with most people and it will come down to who can stay focused and keep their mind on the game.

"Stay out of the hype for the game and just take care of your job," Alvarez said.