Hallsville left no doubt of the outcome during its rivalry game last week.

In what head coach David Plunk called his team's biggest game to that point of the season, the Bobcats shut out Pine Tree, 34-0, to remain in a three-way tie for second place in District 13-4A.

It was a much-needed win before the 'Cats hit the most grueling part of their schedule with all three of their remaining games to be played against returning playoff teams from last year, beginning with state-ranked Longview tonight.

"(Pine Tree) was a game that we knew we had to win if we want to have any chance at making the playoffs in this district," Plunk said. "We went about it the right way and that was to go out and control from start to finish. Now, it's time for us to dig in and get ready for three weeks that really will decide our season."

If Hallsville can manage a win or two during its final three games, it will give the Bobcats a significant shot at making the playoffs. And that will start tonight with Longview, whom the 'Cats played the closest of any team in the district last season, losing 21-14.

"We have to stop their running game," Plunk said. "They're so physical up front on offense. We have to make them work for their touchdowns."

Plunk also said his team will have to sustain its own drives on offense if it wants a shot at toppling the Lobos.

"Offensively, we will have to establish the running game," he said. "If you give them the ball most of the night, they're going to punish you for it. That goes back to establishing the running game and that's what you have to do against them."

But that's not to say that running will be the only key point of emphasis for Hallsville.

"We have to be able to throw the ball, also," Plunk said. "It's all three phases. We're going to have to hold up in special teams. Longview is a team that you have to be solid in all three phases if you expect to win."

Although Hallsville kept it close with the Lobos last season, Plunk is not expecting that to make a difference tonight.

"Last year was last year," the coach said. "I was proud of how our kids played but this is a new year and we have to go out and do it again. Everybody knows Longview is a good team. Our kids better be ready to go when they step on the field."