CLINTON — Pillow Academy fans showed up by the hundreds to enjoy a pre-game tailgate that went much better than the actual game here Thursday at Mississippi College.
About 500 people participated in the organized festivities, sharing good food and good times before forming a walk-through for the team, which arrived by charter buses about two hours prior to kickoff of the State AAA Division II championship game.
“It was a great time, and, as always, Mustang fans showed up in strong numbers and with strong school spirit,” PA headmaster Termie Land. “We are so fortunate to have such great support for our athletic teams and our school. I am proud to be a Mustang.”
In its bid to end a 10-year state title drought, Pillow lost 34-7 to rival Washington School to finish the season at 9-3, while the Generals (10-2) claimed back-to-back state crowns.
The game was tied 7-7 early in the second quarter, but it was all Washington after that. The Generals led 20-7 at the half and were never threatened in the second half.
Second-year Mustang head coach Michael Fair was impressed with fan support; he just wishes his team would have given them a better show.
“Wow, we had another great turnout from our fans,” Fair said. “That’s one of the great things about coaching at such a great school. Obviously, they are disappointed, but no more than us.
“Experience does make a difference. There's no doubt about that. But our guys have been here now so hopefully we can get back and take care of business."
Washington, which has beaten Pillow four straight times, now leads the series 26-13.
