Flames look to get another win

Roberts had a good game including a 21-yard run in a fourth-down situation that kept a drive, and the Flames’ chances, alive. In the end, however, Faith just couldn’t pull the game off and lost 80-68. Coach David Denney praised his team because they just wouldn’t give up. Photo by Daniel Clifton

MARBLE FALLS — Following a loss to Austin Hill Country last week, head coach David Denney spent most of the Oct. 27 practice reviewing film with his players.

“We just shot ourselves in the foot,” he said. “The good thing is they have a great attitude and they don’t quit.”

Fans will be able to see those efforts today when the Flames travel to face Temple Central Texas Christian, considered the team to beat in District 3 for a 7:30 game.

“We have a chance because we have to play,” Denney said. “Anything can happen.”

The Lions enter the contest with a 1-0 district record, while the Flames are 1-1.

CTC is led by coach Jeremy Wentrcek, who has been there for 15 years.

“They are well coached,” Denney said. “They’re disciplined, they have an off-season program.”

He said the Lions’ bread and butter is running the football led by Brian Browder. Junior quarterback Taylor Truitt’s favorite target is receiver Brent Reynolds. 

“They do a great job running,” Denney said. “They have a real fast tailback. They do a great job blocking.”

To the Flames skipper, that’s what makes CTC’s offense so dangerous. They block well and open lanes for runners to gain yards. 

“That’s my big concern – playing off the block and getting to the ball carrier,” he said. 

Once the Lions lull a defense into thinking they can stop the run, they call a passing play and have been successful in that area, too, Denney said.

Offensively, the Flames will rely on quarterback Ryan Roberts and running back Will Diamond.

What makes CTC tough is the team’s speed, the coach said.

“They pursue the ball,” he said. “They hit you. They give you a lot of different looks.”

So coaches have told the players to run the play that is called no matter what formations the defense is in, he said. 

“They’re a solid ball club,” he said. 

Will Shipp broke an ankle and is out, Denney said, and though he wasn’t a starter, he played hard.

“He was a real vital (athlete),” he said. “Someone else has to step up and take his place.”

Because District 3 has four teams, the Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools has issued three playoff berths, Denney said, and the school was informed last week. 

“Six-man Division 1 is really strong,” he said. “It’s going to be a tough road. We think all of (our district games) are must- wins. The sun will still come up tomorrow whether we win or lose. We think God smiles when we play to the best of our abilities and give him the glory.”