Editor’s Note: This report was written by Mark Buffalo, Sports Editor.

The Hazen Hornets bounced from a loss to Poyen by routing Little Rock Episcopal 49-13 on Friday night.

With the win, Hazen improves to 5-2 overall and 2-2 in 2A-4 league play.

The Hornets are currently tied for fourth with Poyen and Hazen. Carlisle and Bearden are tied for second at 3-1.

The top four teams earn spots in the Class 2A state playoffs.

Noah Adkins led the Hornets in rushing with 174 yards and four touchdowns on 18 carries.

Michael Stephens had 79 yards rushing on 15 carries. He scored one touchdown.

On defense, Shayne Gillioun returned an interception for a touchdown. Maverick Snider returned a fumble 31 yards for another touchdown.

“I was proud of our kids,” Hazen coach Clay Totty said. “We had a lot of kids step up in different positions and different roles. I was proud for them.”

Hazen plays at Bearden this Friday. The Bears are 5-2 on the season.

“We’ve got to play good team defense,” Totty said. “The offensive line has got to continue to play well. We’ve got to hang onto the football and make some plays with the kicking game, just play some team ball.”