TIGERS FALL TO #9 GULF COAST IN HOME OPENER

BOONEVILLE, Miss.-- A trio of running backs got the job done for Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College, and quarterback Genario McNealy pitched in as well as the visiting Bulldogs handed the Northeast Tigers their second loss of the young season, 34-7, at Keenum Stadium on Thursday, September 6.

Bulldog running back Albert Williams was the game's only 100-yard rusher (101) but finished the game without a touchdown scamper. The men who carried the ball into the promised land were back-up tailback Demond Washington, and McNealy, each with one rushing TD. McNealy also threw for one score.

In all, Gulf Coast racked up 255 yards rushing thanks mostly to Williams (101), Washington (63), McNealy (54), and Jamal Young (26).

Gulf Coast came into Thursday's contest ranked 9th nationally and exited with proof that the ranking is deserved.

"They're a really good football team," said Northeast head coach Andy Greening. "We gave them a lot of help in the second half, and believe me, they don't need any help. They're as fast on defense as any team we'll play."

Northeast quarterbacks suffered three interceptions on the night. One was returned for a touchdown. The Tigers also fumbled the ball away on their own side of the midfield stripe in the third quarter.

Two bright spots for the Tigers in the loss were sophomore receiver Kenny Robey (Charleston) who finished with 5 catches on the night, and sophomore defensive end Mario Addison (Birmingham, AL) who finished with 5 tackles, one sack, and three tackles for losses.

This week the Tigers will host Hinds Community College on Thursday night, September 13. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. at Keenum Stadium.

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