Central takes loss despite strong efforts from Isla Hardy and Akeema Rivera

By Team Reports Jan 8, 2024, 11:18am

Recap: Central Wildcats vs. Hardin County Tigers

If the Central Wildcats were riding high off their 53-33 takedown of the Elkmont Red Devils on Saturday, their most recent game may have dampened their spirits a bit. Central opened the new year with a less-than-successful 47-36 defeat to Hardin County. The loss unfortunately continues a disappointing trend for Central in their matchups with Hardin County: they've now lost seven in a row.

Despite the defeat, Central had strong showings from Akeema Rivera, who scored nine points along with three steals, and Isla Hardy, who scored eight points. Hardy continues to roll, besting her previous point total in each of the last three games she's played.

Central has been struggling recently, as they've lost four of their last five games, which put a noticeable dent in their 7-10 record this season. As for Hardin County, they pushed their record up to 12-4 with that win, which was their fifth straight at home.

Both squads are looking forward to the support of their home crowds in their upcoming games. Central will take on Wilson at 6:30 p.m. on Friday. The matchup should be an exciting one, as these teams are ranked near one another in Alabama (Wilson is ranked 215th, while Central is ranked 226th). As for Hardin County, they will look to defend their home court on Friday against Adamsville at 6:00 p.m.