DECATUR — The Bulldogs lost 25-20 to the Wildcats during a 4-2A conference game on Friday at Hector.

The loss gives Decatur a 4-4 record overall and a 3-3 record in conference play.

The Wildcats started the game with two big plays, giving them a 12 point lead early on, but the Bulldogs began to close the gap in the second half of the game.

“We didn’t come out of the gate well. They were a good football team,” said Decatur head coach Shane Holland. “I was proud ofhow we came back in the second half, but disappointed we didn’t play two halves of football.”

Offensively, the team ran the ball quite well, Holland said. Senior Samuel Xiong was named offensive player of the week. He rushed for 72 yards on eight carries and had a seven-yard reception for a touchdown. Sophomore Victor Urquidi rushed for 165 yards on seven carries and had two touchdowns.

The defense played most of the game well but gave up four big plays and lost the turnover battle, allowing the Wildcats to get the ball three times, Holland said. Senior Elijah McIverwas named defensive player of the week. He made three solo tackles and four assisted tackles during the game.

The loss means Decatur will have to win both of its last two games to secure a good position in the state playoffs, Holland said. While it's possible for the team to make it to the playoffs with one more win, it’s not guaranteed, he said. If the Bulldogs do make it to the playoffs, it will be the first time since 1997.

Decatur will face Union Christian Academy (1-7 overall) at home on Friday. They will face the Leftwich Rattlers (4-4 overall) on Nov. 2 at home.

Sports, Pages 11 on 10/24/2012