Golden Tigers fall to Muscle Shoals

Russellville dug itself an early hole Friday night against Muscle Shoals and could never climb out.

Zack Garrison’s attempted screen pass was intercepted and returned for a 14-yard touchdown on the Golden Tigers’ first offensive play and the Trojans never looked back on their way to a 41-0 win.

It marked the third straight shutout win over Russellville.

Following the Trojans’ first touchdown Friday night, which was only 15 seconds into the game, the ball was knocked away from Russellville’s Austin Kitterman on the ensuing kickoff.

Muscle Shoals recovered and would score six plays later to build the lead to 14-0 with 8:04 to play in the first quarter.

The Trojans tacked on a safety when the ball was snapped over Garrison’s head and through the back of the end zone in the second quarter right after the Russellville defense forced a turnover at the goal line. Muscle Shoals extended the half time lead to 19-0 with a 23-yard field goal as the half expired.

The Russellville offense struggled throughout the night, finishing the game with only 31 total yards on 31 offensive plays. The Golden Tigers netted one rushing yard on 23 carries and had 30 yards on four of eight passing for the game, with only three first downs.

Muscle Shoals racked up 417 total yards and amassed 57 total plays. The Trojans had 150 yards on 14 penalties.

The Trojans controlled the game late, adding three-second half scores.

Russellville travels next week to take on East Limestone.