Bobcats hoping tough schedule pays off now

By Staff
Mike Self FCT Sports Editor
The Phil Campbell Bobcats may not have a glamorous won-loss record heading into tonight's Class 2A sub-region game at Tanner, but coach Kelly Kiser is hoping that a tough schedule has prepared his team for the No. 2 Rattlers (24-2).
Phil Campbell is the second team from Franklin County to make the journey to Tanner for a sub-region game in as many years.
Last season, the Red Bay Tigers traveled to Tanner and came up just short of advancing to the Northwest Regional Tournament in Hanceville.
The Rattlers lost several key performers from last year's team, but, as their gaudy record and lofty ranking indicate, they haven't missed a beat.
Kiser said that, despite Tanner's superior athleticism, the Bobcats still plan to use the full-court pressure that served them so well in the Area 16 tournament.
Phil Campbell used that physical press to rally past Belgreen in the semifinals and nearly rode it to a comeback victory over Red Bay in the finals before falling just short.
Since the Bobcats typically employ a four-guard lineup, blocking out and rebounding will be a big key to their chances for an upset tonight.
Red Bay out-rebounded the Bobcats 41-28 in Monday's area championship game.
The Bobcats are also hoping to establish more consistent production on offense.
They managed only 21 points through three quarters against Belgreen before erupting for 33 in the fourth quarter.
Kiser said that the Bobcats' first trip to the regional tournament since 2000 would be a great reward for his team, particularly the seven seniors.
Tonight's game tips at 7 p.m.