Down 28-20 in the fourth quarter, the Jaguars needed to rally in order to win on their homecoming game. The Jaguars did just that by scoring 15 unanswered points and keeping North Gaston out of the end zone.
North Gaston received the ball first and went straight to work. The Jaguars defense had no answer for North Gaston’s power running triple-option attack. Their drive would be capped off with a Nick Haskin 13-yard touchdown run. The point after was missed.
It was then time for the Jaguars passing attack to go to work. And it did! Logan Bradley’s 25-yard touchdown pass to Mykelti Armstrong tied the game at 6 and Colton Rouse’s kick gave Forestview a one-point advantage.
Haskin put North Gaston back on top with a one-yard run into the end-zone. The two-point conversion failed. Bradley and Armstrong would hook up again for the Jaguars, this time with a 34-yard touchdown connection. After stopping North Gaston for the first time, the Jaguars added another touchdown. On the first play on the ensuing drive, Bradley hit Moe Neal in the flats and he took it 73 yards for a Jaguar touchdown. The kick sailed wide, however.
Forestview was in position to put another score on the board, but Bradley was intercepted by Andrew Ray in the end zone. The Wildcats were able to get deep into Forestview territory on the next drive but could not come away with any points as the half expired.
The Jaguars were hoping to create more separation in the second half, but North Gaston kicked short like they did most of the night and caught Forestview off guard as they recovered the short kick.
Haskin’s nine-yard run for a touchdown and a run for a two-point conversion tied the game at 20. A missed field-goal by the Jaguars gave North Gaston more momentum and they took advantage. Raquan Brown put the Wildcats on top with a 34-yard touchdown run. Haskin once again ran it in for the two-point conversion. It was 28-20 early in the fourth quarter.
The Jaguars would not quit, however. They went into their bag of tricks to get back in it. Calvin Johnson hit Mykelti Armstrong with a reverse pass for a 44-yard touchdown. Logan Bradley hit Armstrong with a two-point conversion to tie the game back up at 28-28.
The Jaguars defense came up with a big play when D.J. Davis forced a Nick Haskin fumble that Garrett Robinson recovered. The Jaguar offense took advantage. Bradley hit Moe Neal for a 20-yard touchdown pass to give the Jaguars a 35-28 lead. The Wildcats would not be able to answer as the Jaguars’ defense held once again and the offense was able to run out the clock.
Bradley passed for 248 yards to lead Forestview’s offense. Armstrong was the recipient of 103 of those yards while Moe Neal amassed 114. North Gaston fullback Corey Staley led the Wildcat rushing attack with 194 yards. Haskin amassed 108 and three touchdowns and two two-point conversion runs.
Forestview travels to South Point (a 30-13 winner over Ashbrook) next week while North Gaston hosts Crest (a 65-15 winner over A.C. Reynolds).
Saturday, September 29, 2012
Friday, September 21, 2012
Gaston, Lincoln and Cleveland County Week 6 Picks
Game of the Week: Forestview (4-1)(0-0) @ Crest (4-1)(1-0)
The Chargers started out conference play last week with a competitive 35-28 overtime win at Ashbrook. Now the Jaguars are hoping to start their conference schedule in the same fashion. The Jaguars, since their season opening 38-0 loss to Nation Ford, have won four straight. The Jaguars newly installed spread offense has put up record-setting numbers for the school. However, their opponents are a combined 2-17. One point is all that separates Crest from an undefeated season and that was against T.C. Roberson. Look for this to be another battle to the very end.
My pick: Crest 24 – Forestview 21
Ashbrook (2-2)(0-1) @ North Gaston (1-4)(0-1)
Ashbrook is looking to rebound after suffering two consecutive losses. North Gaston is looking for another win for the year. Ashbrook lost a heart-breaker in their conference opener against Crest as they were beat 35-28 in overtime. North Gaston suffered a 41-16 drubbing at the hands of Hunter Huss. Ashbrook will likely have the edge in this one.
My pick: Ashbrook 35 – North Gaston 21
Hunter Huss (4-1)(1-0) @ South Point (5-0)(1-0)
Hunter Huss has been good this year. However, South Point has been pretty dominant. Ever since their 34-21 win over Providence Day, none of the Red Raiders games have been close. The Huskies will have to bring their A+ game to have a shot in this one. The only formidable team they have faced this year is Concord and the Spiders won that game 48-28.
My pick: South Point 42 – Hunter Huss 21
Shelby (1-4)(0-1) @ Kings Mountain (2-3)(0-1)
These two teams take a break from conference play. But when these two teams get together, it’s anything but a break. Both teams have struggled mightily this year. A win tonight will right the ship for whoever wins this game. The loser of this game will probably leave scratching their heads and looking for answers. Despite the records, look for the tradition “Battle of Buffalo Creek” to be an all out battle.
My pick: Kings Mountain 28 – Shelby 21
Highland Tech (0-4)(0-1) @ Lincolnton (1-4)(0-1)
It’s been a struggle for Lincolnton. Youth and injuries have been a big obstacle for the Wolves as they are riding a four-game losing streak since opening the season up with a 9-7 win over Maiden. Highland Tech is hoping to even taste a win. The Wolves should be able to snap their losing streak tonight.
My pick: Lincolnton 42 – Highland Tech 0
Cherryville (2-3)(1-0) @ Bessemer City (0-5)(0-1)
The Ironmen are looking to win their second game in a row against arch-rival Bessemer City. The Yellow Jackets are hoping to get their first win. The odds point in Cherryville’s favor, but in a rivalry game anything can happen.
My pick: Cherryville 28 – Bessemer City 12
Lake Norman Charter (4-0)(1-0) @ West Lincoln (3-2)(1-0)
Look out now. Lake Norman Charter comes into this game undefeated. Could they be in the race for the South Piedmont Conference title? West Lincoln has struggled at times this year, but are still a very dangerous team. Look for this to be a very competitive game.
My pick: West Lincoln 28 – Lake Norman Charter 24
East Lincoln (5-0)(1-0) @ North Lincoln (0-5)(0-1)
The records speak for themselves. The Mustangs have been putting up numbers offensively this year. Quarterback Garrett Young already has over 1,600 yards passing and East Lincoln is putting up an average of 48 points a game. North Lincoln has struggled to find any rhythm so far this year. This could be a very long night for the Knights.
My pick: East Lincoln 56 – North Lincoln 13
Olympic (1-3)(0-0) @ East Gaston (0-5)(0-1)
East Gaston gave Berry Academy a good game last week. The Warriors were down 35-28 before Berry pulled away in the very end with a 48-34 win. But it will be a little tougher this week as they face off with the dangerous Olympic Trojans. This will be Olympic’s conference opener.
My pick: Olympic 42 – East Gaston 20
Freedom (4-1)(1-0) @ Burns (2-3)(0-0)
The Bulldogs open conference play tonight as they host Freedom. It has not been a smooth ride for the Bulldogs. The Bulldogs have had a brutal nonconference schedule and it won’t get any easier tonight as the Patriots come to town. Burns has taken the previous three games from Freedom, but this is a totally different year.
My pick: Freedom 28 – Burns 13
The Chargers started out conference play last week with a competitive 35-28 overtime win at Ashbrook. Now the Jaguars are hoping to start their conference schedule in the same fashion. The Jaguars, since their season opening 38-0 loss to Nation Ford, have won four straight. The Jaguars newly installed spread offense has put up record-setting numbers for the school. However, their opponents are a combined 2-17. One point is all that separates Crest from an undefeated season and that was against T.C. Roberson. Look for this to be another battle to the very end.
My pick: Crest 24 – Forestview 21
Ashbrook (2-2)(0-1) @ North Gaston (1-4)(0-1)
Ashbrook is looking to rebound after suffering two consecutive losses. North Gaston is looking for another win for the year. Ashbrook lost a heart-breaker in their conference opener against Crest as they were beat 35-28 in overtime. North Gaston suffered a 41-16 drubbing at the hands of Hunter Huss. Ashbrook will likely have the edge in this one.
My pick: Ashbrook 35 – North Gaston 21
Hunter Huss (4-1)(1-0) @ South Point (5-0)(1-0)
Hunter Huss has been good this year. However, South Point has been pretty dominant. Ever since their 34-21 win over Providence Day, none of the Red Raiders games have been close. The Huskies will have to bring their A+ game to have a shot in this one. The only formidable team they have faced this year is Concord and the Spiders won that game 48-28.
My pick: South Point 42 – Hunter Huss 21
Shelby (1-4)(0-1) @ Kings Mountain (2-3)(0-1)
These two teams take a break from conference play. But when these two teams get together, it’s anything but a break. Both teams have struggled mightily this year. A win tonight will right the ship for whoever wins this game. The loser of this game will probably leave scratching their heads and looking for answers. Despite the records, look for the tradition “Battle of Buffalo Creek” to be an all out battle.
My pick: Kings Mountain 28 – Shelby 21
Highland Tech (0-4)(0-1) @ Lincolnton (1-4)(0-1)
It’s been a struggle for Lincolnton. Youth and injuries have been a big obstacle for the Wolves as they are riding a four-game losing streak since opening the season up with a 9-7 win over Maiden. Highland Tech is hoping to even taste a win. The Wolves should be able to snap their losing streak tonight.
My pick: Lincolnton 42 – Highland Tech 0
Cherryville (2-3)(1-0) @ Bessemer City (0-5)(0-1)
The Ironmen are looking to win their second game in a row against arch-rival Bessemer City. The Yellow Jackets are hoping to get their first win. The odds point in Cherryville’s favor, but in a rivalry game anything can happen.
My pick: Cherryville 28 – Bessemer City 12
Lake Norman Charter (4-0)(1-0) @ West Lincoln (3-2)(1-0)
Look out now. Lake Norman Charter comes into this game undefeated. Could they be in the race for the South Piedmont Conference title? West Lincoln has struggled at times this year, but are still a very dangerous team. Look for this to be a very competitive game.
My pick: West Lincoln 28 – Lake Norman Charter 24
East Lincoln (5-0)(1-0) @ North Lincoln (0-5)(0-1)
The records speak for themselves. The Mustangs have been putting up numbers offensively this year. Quarterback Garrett Young already has over 1,600 yards passing and East Lincoln is putting up an average of 48 points a game. North Lincoln has struggled to find any rhythm so far this year. This could be a very long night for the Knights.
My pick: East Lincoln 56 – North Lincoln 13
Olympic (1-3)(0-0) @ East Gaston (0-5)(0-1)
East Gaston gave Berry Academy a good game last week. The Warriors were down 35-28 before Berry pulled away in the very end with a 48-34 win. But it will be a little tougher this week as they face off with the dangerous Olympic Trojans. This will be Olympic’s conference opener.
My pick: Olympic 42 – East Gaston 20
Freedom (4-1)(1-0) @ Burns (2-3)(0-0)
The Bulldogs open conference play tonight as they host Freedom. It has not been a smooth ride for the Bulldogs. The Bulldogs have had a brutal nonconference schedule and it won’t get any easier tonight as the Patriots come to town. Burns has taken the previous three games from Freedom, but this is a totally different year.
My pick: Freedom 28 – Burns 13
Saturday, September 15, 2012
Bradley’s record-breaking performance crushes Lincolnton
What was a slow start for the Jaguars in the first half turned into a second half rout and a record breaking performance by Forestview quarterback, Logan Bradley. The Junior threw five touchdowns, a feat never accomplished by a Forestview quarterback. Logan hit Mykelti Armstrong for three touchdowns (4, 72, and 30). He hit Calvin Johnson for a 42-yard touchdown pass and also hit C.J. Bumgardner for a 6-yard score.
It did not start off smoothly for the Jaguars as Bradley was picked off near midfield by Lincolnton’s Tanner Cantrell, who returned it all the way to the 18-yard line. Lincolnton would punch it in a few plays later with a four-yard run by Darian Roseboro. Braden Willis’s extra point gave the Wolves a 7-0 lead.
Sound Familiar? The Jaguars faced a similar situation earlier this year against Clover when Bradley threw an interception on their opening drive. The Jaguars would end up winning that game by a convincing score of 38-16.
Tonight would duplicate that as Forestview answered the call on their next drive. Freshman runningback Moe Neal got Forestview on the board with an 11-yard run. Colton Rouse’s extra point tied the game at 7-7. Then the Logan Bradley show started. Bradley connected with Armstrong to give the Jaguars a 14-7 lead. That would be the half-time score.
The Jaguars went on a tear in the second half. Forestview’s offense scored 28 third quarter points and the Jaguar defense would not let Lincolnton get any momentum going. Bradley’s touchdown passes to Mykelti Armstrong on two consecutive drives gave Forestview a 28-7 advantage.
Special teams got in other action as Garrett Robinson blocked a Lincolnton punt and Marcus McCluney recoved the ball inside Lincolnton’s ten-yard line. Montavis Rogers would punch it in from the one-yard line to give Forestview a 35-7 lead. Bradley’s 42-yard pass to Johnson capped off the third quarter scoring for the Jaguars. Bradley’s six-yard touchdown pass to C.J. Bumgardner in the fourth quarter made the final 49-7.
“They were a solid team” Forestview head coach Chris Medlin said of Lincolnton “They played us hard the first half and gave us all we can handle. We scored 35 points in the second half and came out and separated.”
Medlin was proud of his team’s effort as a whole.
“The offensive line protected, the defense stopped. The whole team played great.”
“In the third quarter, the snowball started.” Lincolnton head coach Scott Cloninger said “We didn’t have anybody to stop it. We are dealing with adversity. I was happy the first half, 14-7 to (Forestview). Give me four quarters. We’re in a little lull right now. We’re beat up and young.”
Logan Bradley passed for 210 yards, five touchdowns and one interception. Forestview sophomore tailback Moe Neal rushed for 115 yards.
Lincolnton will host Highland Tech next week as they resume conference play. Forestview will start their conference schedule next week at Crest.
It did not start off smoothly for the Jaguars as Bradley was picked off near midfield by Lincolnton’s Tanner Cantrell, who returned it all the way to the 18-yard line. Lincolnton would punch it in a few plays later with a four-yard run by Darian Roseboro. Braden Willis’s extra point gave the Wolves a 7-0 lead.
Sound Familiar? The Jaguars faced a similar situation earlier this year against Clover when Bradley threw an interception on their opening drive. The Jaguars would end up winning that game by a convincing score of 38-16.
Tonight would duplicate that as Forestview answered the call on their next drive. Freshman runningback Moe Neal got Forestview on the board with an 11-yard run. Colton Rouse’s extra point tied the game at 7-7. Then the Logan Bradley show started. Bradley connected with Armstrong to give the Jaguars a 14-7 lead. That would be the half-time score.
The Jaguars went on a tear in the second half. Forestview’s offense scored 28 third quarter points and the Jaguar defense would not let Lincolnton get any momentum going. Bradley’s touchdown passes to Mykelti Armstrong on two consecutive drives gave Forestview a 28-7 advantage.
Special teams got in other action as Garrett Robinson blocked a Lincolnton punt and Marcus McCluney recoved the ball inside Lincolnton’s ten-yard line. Montavis Rogers would punch it in from the one-yard line to give Forestview a 35-7 lead. Bradley’s 42-yard pass to Johnson capped off the third quarter scoring for the Jaguars. Bradley’s six-yard touchdown pass to C.J. Bumgardner in the fourth quarter made the final 49-7.
“They were a solid team” Forestview head coach Chris Medlin said of Lincolnton “They played us hard the first half and gave us all we can handle. We scored 35 points in the second half and came out and separated.”
Medlin was proud of his team’s effort as a whole.
“The offensive line protected, the defense stopped. The whole team played great.”
“In the third quarter, the snowball started.” Lincolnton head coach Scott Cloninger said “We didn’t have anybody to stop it. We are dealing with adversity. I was happy the first half, 14-7 to (Forestview). Give me four quarters. We’re in a little lull right now. We’re beat up and young.”
Logan Bradley passed for 210 yards, five touchdowns and one interception. Forestview sophomore tailback Moe Neal rushed for 115 yards.
Lincolnton will host Highland Tech next week as they resume conference play. Forestview will start their conference schedule next week at Crest.
Friday, September 14, 2012
Gaston, Lincoln and Cleveland Week 5 Picks
Game of the Week: Crest (3-1) @ Ashbrook (2-1)
Both of these teams were undefeated before last week. Now, both are looking to rebound. Tonight is Ashbrook’s homecoming and the home team has won the last four games in this series including a playoff game in 2010 in which Crest won 29-26. Look for this to be a close, competitive ball game.
My pick: Ashbrook 20 – Crest 17
South Point (4-0) @ Kings Mountain (2-2)
Kings Mountain rebounded in a big way after losing their previous two games in a 55-33 win over Alexander Central. Now, they welcome a red hot Red Raiders squad to John Gamble Stadium. Other than their 34-21 win over Providence Day, none of their other wins have been that close.
My pick: South Point 34 – Kings Mountain 20
North Gaston (1-3) @ Hunter Huss (3-1)
The Huskies lost for the first time this season last week, but they must rebound quickly against an improved North Gaston team. The Wildcats got their first win of the year a few weeks ago and are looking to get their first conference win since 2007.
My pick: Hunter Huss 27 – North Gaston 21
Lincolnton (1-3) @ Forestview (3-1)
The Jaguars and the Wolves continue going in opposite directions. The Jaguars have won three straight games after losing the season opener. Lincolnton has lost three consecutive games after winning their season opener. The trend will likely continue.
My pick: Forestview 35 – Lincolnton 14
Bessemer City (0-4) @ East Lincoln (4-0)
This one will probably get out of hand quick.
My pick: East Lincoln 56 – Bessemer City 6
North Lincoln (0-4) @ Cherryville (1-3)
This has been a tough start for both teams. The Ironmen came close to tasting victory last week but fell short. As bad as the Knights have struggled this year, Cherryville should get their second win of the season.
My pick: Cherryville 24 – North Lincoln 10
West Lincoln (2-2) @ North Iredell (0-4)
The Rebels started off 2-0, but have since then lost two in a row. The Rebels are hopeful about stopping the bleeding against a winless North Iredell team.
My pick: West Lincoln 24 – North Iredell 14
East Gaston (0-4) @ Berry Academy (1-3)
It hasn’t been the start that either team would hope for. But one of these teams will walk out with a victory.
My pick: Berry Academy 28 – East Gaston 21
Shelby (1-3) @ Freedom (3-1)
The Golden Lions got their first win of the season last week but run into a dangerous Freedom team. The Golden Lions will have their hands full in this game.
My pick: Freedom 34 – Shelby 13
Q Foundation (1-2) @ Burns (1-3)
Burns should be able to get their second win of the season here.
My pick: Burns 35 – Q Foundation 6
South Point is the only unbeaten team left. The Red Raiders have been pretty dominant this year. They were picked by many to finish second behind Crest, but it looks like they are poised to win their sixth straight conference title and their 12th in 14 years.
The South Piedmont Conference currently has two unbeaten teams, East Lincoln and Lake Norman Charter. East Lincoln will look to keep their streak alive against Bessemer City. Lake Norman Charter is on a bye week.
Both of these teams were undefeated before last week. Now, both are looking to rebound. Tonight is Ashbrook’s homecoming and the home team has won the last four games in this series including a playoff game in 2010 in which Crest won 29-26. Look for this to be a close, competitive ball game.
My pick: Ashbrook 20 – Crest 17
South Point (4-0) @ Kings Mountain (2-2)
Kings Mountain rebounded in a big way after losing their previous two games in a 55-33 win over Alexander Central. Now, they welcome a red hot Red Raiders squad to John Gamble Stadium. Other than their 34-21 win over Providence Day, none of their other wins have been that close.
My pick: South Point 34 – Kings Mountain 20
North Gaston (1-3) @ Hunter Huss (3-1)
The Huskies lost for the first time this season last week, but they must rebound quickly against an improved North Gaston team. The Wildcats got their first win of the year a few weeks ago and are looking to get their first conference win since 2007.
My pick: Hunter Huss 27 – North Gaston 21
Lincolnton (1-3) @ Forestview (3-1)
The Jaguars and the Wolves continue going in opposite directions. The Jaguars have won three straight games after losing the season opener. Lincolnton has lost three consecutive games after winning their season opener. The trend will likely continue.
My pick: Forestview 35 – Lincolnton 14
Bessemer City (0-4) @ East Lincoln (4-0)
This one will probably get out of hand quick.
My pick: East Lincoln 56 – Bessemer City 6
North Lincoln (0-4) @ Cherryville (1-3)
This has been a tough start for both teams. The Ironmen came close to tasting victory last week but fell short. As bad as the Knights have struggled this year, Cherryville should get their second win of the season.
My pick: Cherryville 24 – North Lincoln 10
West Lincoln (2-2) @ North Iredell (0-4)
The Rebels started off 2-0, but have since then lost two in a row. The Rebels are hopeful about stopping the bleeding against a winless North Iredell team.
My pick: West Lincoln 24 – North Iredell 14
East Gaston (0-4) @ Berry Academy (1-3)
It hasn’t been the start that either team would hope for. But one of these teams will walk out with a victory.
My pick: Berry Academy 28 – East Gaston 21
Shelby (1-3) @ Freedom (3-1)
The Golden Lions got their first win of the season last week but run into a dangerous Freedom team. The Golden Lions will have their hands full in this game.
My pick: Freedom 34 – Shelby 13
Q Foundation (1-2) @ Burns (1-3)
Burns should be able to get their second win of the season here.
My pick: Burns 35 – Q Foundation 6
And Then There Was One
Before last week, the Big South 3A conference had four unbeaten teams. This week, only one remains. Ashbrook saw their streak snapped against Charlotte Catholic. The Cougars routed Ashbrook 49-21. Hunter Huss saw their undefeated season vanish in a 48-28 blowout at Concord. Crest fell just one point short of keeping theirs alive in a 28-27 matchup against T.C. Roberson.South Point is the only unbeaten team left. The Red Raiders have been pretty dominant this year. They were picked by many to finish second behind Crest, but it looks like they are poised to win their sixth straight conference title and their 12th in 14 years.
The South Piedmont Conference currently has two unbeaten teams, East Lincoln and Lake Norman Charter. East Lincoln will look to keep their streak alive against Bessemer City. Lake Norman Charter is on a bye week.
Still Searching For That First Win
There are four area teams still seeking their first win of the season. Bessemer City, East Gaston, Highland Tech and North Lincoln are all winless on the season. The Yellow Jackets have another tall order tonight as they face undefeated East Lincoln. North Lincoln travels to Cherryville and East Gaston will play at Berry Academy tonight. Highland Tech is off.Waiting Another Week
While most teams are starting conference play, there are two that have an extra week to prepare for conference play. Forestview will have one final nonconference matchup against Lincolnton. The Jaguars will then open up conference play at Crest. Burns will host the Q Foundation before opening up conference lay next week. Burns will be at Freedom next week. Lincolnton and county rival, West Lincoln, aren’t playing conference games this week but they already have conference matchups under their belts.Saturday, September 8, 2012
Elijah Hood, Charlotte Catholic wallop Ashbrook
Coming into the game with Charlotte Catholic, Ashbrook knew it would be a test. It did not take real long to see how big of a test it really was. The Cougars started quick using power running lead by junior fullback, Elijah Hood. But it was a 14-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Ryan Miller to Drew Tomsho that got Catholic on the board early.
The Cougars capped off their second drive with a 16-yard touchdown run by Zach Gabriel. Mitch Lochbihler’s extra point made it 14-0. This time last week, the Cougars blew a 14-0 lead and ended up losing 31-28 to Charlotte Country Day. Catholic was determined not to repeat that mistake.
Elijah Hood got on the board with a 43-yard touchdown run in the second quarter. The Cougars, however, would give the Green Wave a gift. Forced to punt midway through the second quarter, the Cougars mishandled the punt. Ashbrook took possession of the ball at the 11-yard line. Quarterback Dre Brice got Ashbrook on the board with a three-yard touchdown run. Ross Taylor’s extra point cut the Cougars’ lead to 21-7.
Catholic just kept pouring it on. Hood broke loose for another long touchdown run. This time it was from 53 yards out. The score would be 28-7 at the half. Ashbrook has been in a situation similar to this before. Week 1, they rallied from being down 35-21 at the half to win 45-42 over Olympic.
This mountain would keep getting steeper for the Green Wave. Gabriel extended the Cougar lead with his second touchdown run of the day – this time from 15 yards.
The Green Wave refused to go away. Brice broke off a 39 yard run to score his second touchdown of the evening. The Cougar lead was back down to 21.
Each time Ashbrook gathered momentum, the Cougars dashed those hopes. Hood answered the Green Wave score with another 53-yard touchdown run. This game was getting out of hand.
Tre Brice tried one more time to lead the Green Wave to another comeback. This time he used his arm when he hit Grant Stafford for a 23-yard touchdown pass. Ashbrook would not get closer and Catholic put the nail in the coffin when quarterback Ryan Miller punched another touchdown in from the one-yard line.
Elijah Hood had a big night for Charlotte Catholic. The Junior Fullback rolled up 306 yards and three touchdowns. Charlotte Catholic (3-1) opens up conference next Friday at home against Garinger. Ashbrook (2-1) opens conference play at home against Crest.
Hill on his team “Our kids don’t quit. They play hard.”
Hill on Catholic and Ashbrook's schedule “They are the toughest we’ve played since I’ve been at Ashbrook. It’s an opportunity to measure where we’re at. It doesn’t get any easier. Our nonconference schedule will prepare us for conference. To be the man, you have to beat the man. We don't dodge anybody.”
Catholic Coach Jim Oddo on Hood “He’s special. He’s got the heart of an elephant. He will you a smart coach. I coached his dad and his uncle. He’s got a good pedigree. He’s a good student and a good kid.”
Oddo on the team “We looked good, but we need to get better. We’ll get there. We’re young.”
The Cougars capped off their second drive with a 16-yard touchdown run by Zach Gabriel. Mitch Lochbihler’s extra point made it 14-0. This time last week, the Cougars blew a 14-0 lead and ended up losing 31-28 to Charlotte Country Day. Catholic was determined not to repeat that mistake.
Elijah Hood got on the board with a 43-yard touchdown run in the second quarter. The Cougars, however, would give the Green Wave a gift. Forced to punt midway through the second quarter, the Cougars mishandled the punt. Ashbrook took possession of the ball at the 11-yard line. Quarterback Dre Brice got Ashbrook on the board with a three-yard touchdown run. Ross Taylor’s extra point cut the Cougars’ lead to 21-7.
Catholic just kept pouring it on. Hood broke loose for another long touchdown run. This time it was from 53 yards out. The score would be 28-7 at the half. Ashbrook has been in a situation similar to this before. Week 1, they rallied from being down 35-21 at the half to win 45-42 over Olympic.
This mountain would keep getting steeper for the Green Wave. Gabriel extended the Cougar lead with his second touchdown run of the day – this time from 15 yards.
The Green Wave refused to go away. Brice broke off a 39 yard run to score his second touchdown of the evening. The Cougar lead was back down to 21.
Each time Ashbrook gathered momentum, the Cougars dashed those hopes. Hood answered the Green Wave score with another 53-yard touchdown run. This game was getting out of hand.
Tre Brice tried one more time to lead the Green Wave to another comeback. This time he used his arm when he hit Grant Stafford for a 23-yard touchdown pass. Ashbrook would not get closer and Catholic put the nail in the coffin when quarterback Ryan Miller punched another touchdown in from the one-yard line.
Elijah Hood had a big night for Charlotte Catholic. The Junior Fullback rolled up 306 yards and three touchdowns. Charlotte Catholic (3-1) opens up conference next Friday at home against Garinger. Ashbrook (2-1) opens conference play at home against Crest.
Quotes from the coaches:
Ashbrook coach Greg Hill on Elijah Hood “God has blessed that kid. (Hood) is a big-time back.”Hill on his team “Our kids don’t quit. They play hard.”
Hill on Catholic and Ashbrook's schedule “They are the toughest we’ve played since I’ve been at Ashbrook. It’s an opportunity to measure where we’re at. It doesn’t get any easier. Our nonconference schedule will prepare us for conference. To be the man, you have to beat the man. We don't dodge anybody.”
Catholic Coach Jim Oddo on Hood “He’s special. He’s got the heart of an elephant. He will you a smart coach. I coached his dad and his uncle. He’s got a good pedigree. He’s a good student and a good kid.”
Oddo on the team “We looked good, but we need to get better. We’ll get there. We’re young.”
Friday, September 7, 2012
Gaston, Lincoln and Cleveland Week 4 Picks
Game of the Week: Hunter Huss (3-0) @ Concord (3-0)
This will be Huss’s first true test of the year. They have had Concord’s number the past three years. Can they make it four in a row?
My pick: Concord 31 – Hunter Huss 24
Ashbrook (2-0) @ Charlotte Catholic (2-1) Ashbrook faces a Catholic team coming off their first loss of the season. The Cougars are still going to be a tall order for the Green Wave.
My pick: Charlotte Catholic 35 – Ashbrook 21
South Point (3-0) @ Burns (2-1) The Red Raiders just keep on rolling. Coming off their first loss of the season, the Burns Bulldogs will have their hands full with Jaquan Brooks, Tyler Bray and company.
My pick: South Point 35 – Burns 14
T.C. Roberson (3-0) @ Crest (3-0) One of these teams will have their first loss of the season. The odds point to the Chargers walking away the victor. The Rams have never beaten the Chargers.
My pick: Crest 21 – T.C. Roberson 14
North Gaston (1-2) @ Hickory (2-1) The Wildcats are still looking for their first road win since 2007. But it won’t be easy as Hickory is getting better every week.
My pick: Hickory 28 – North Gaston 14
Shelby (0-3) @ Lincolnton (1-2)(0-1) Two of the areas traditional powerhouses have fallen on hard times. But one of these teams will see their luck change while the other could go reeling even further.
My pick: Lincolnton 24 – Shelby 17
Forestview (2-1) @ Bessemer City (0-3) Forestview will face a team with the mascot “The Yellow Jackets” for the second consecutive week. This game should also have the same result as last week’s.
My pick: Forestview 56 – Bessemer City 6
East Gaston (0-3) @ East Lincoln (3-0) The Warriors have fallen on hard times this year. It will not get any easier as they face a red hot East Lincoln squad. They are averaging 48 points a game.
My pick: East Lincoln 52 – East Gaston 13
Alexander Central (1-2) @ Kings Mountain (1-2) The Mountaineers are looking to get back on track after losing back-to-back road games. The Alexander Central Cougars are also hungry and cannot be taken lightly.
My pick: Kings Mountain 21 – Alexander Central 17
West Lincoln (2-1)(1-0) @ East Rutherford (1-2) The Rebels are trying to get back on track after being tripped up by Fred T. Foard last week. However, they have not had a solid track record against East Rutherford.
My pick: East Rutherford 24 – West Lincoln 21
Chase (1-2) @ Cherryville (1-2) Which one of these two teams will hit .500 tonight?
My pick: Chase 24 – Cherryville 13
Bandys (2-1) @ North Lincoln (0-3) After suffering their first loss of the season last week, the Trojans will probably take a lot of that frustration out on the winless Knights.
My pick: Bandys 38 – North Lincoln 6
Metrolina Christian Academy (0-1) @ Highland Tech (0-3) The struggling Rams probably won’t get their first win of the season tonight.
My pick: Metrolina 28 – Highland Tech 6
Breakdown:
Red Raiders still dominant
Many wondered how the South Point Red Raiders would fare after they graduated 27 seniors from last year. Well, the Red Raiders picked up right where they left off. Their performances the first two weeks have left more answers than questions. First, South Point rallied from 21-13 down to defending NCISAA champion Providence Day to go on to win 34-21.
The following week, the Red Raiders score 49 unanswered points after Lincolnton went up 8-0 in the first quarter. Then last Friday, they put a whopping 78 points up against East Gaston. That broke a school record in scoring. Their previous record was 76. That was back in 2003 when they throttled Berry Academy 76-6. The Red Raiders won the 3A state title that year. They also broke the record in single rushing yards for one game.
If this doesn’t convince you that South Point is still legit, then what can? The Red Raiders travel to take on Burns. The Bulldogs lost for the first time last week against Mooresville 28-6.
It’s Test Time
The Huskies have started the season on fire. They have outscored their first three opponents 152-14 and pitched two shutouts doing so. However, their opponents are a combined 0-8. The Huskies will face their first test this week as they travel to Concord. The Spiders are 3-0 on the season. The Spiders have outscored two of their opponents by more than 20 points in two of their games.
Ashbrook is 2-0 with a hard-fought 45-42 win over Olympic and a 24-10 win over winless Shelby. Ashbrook travels to take on Charlotte Catholic. The Cougars lost for the first time last week as they were upended 31-28 by Charlotte Country Day. That also snapped Catholic’s 26-regular season game winning streak. Ashbrook will have their hands full trying to stop Catholic’s Wing-T offense featuring bruising fullback Elijah Hood.
Who would have thought this?
Lincolnton was the 2A state runner up last year. They were 14-2 overall. Shelby, after a 1-4 start, made it all the way to the fourth round of the playoffs. This year, however, both teams are a combined 1-5 coming into tonight’s game. Shelby has not won a game yet and Lincolnton already has their first conference loss as they dropped a close one to Lake Norman Charter 30-28. Both teams are going to try and redeem their season with a win.
My pick: Concord 31 – Hunter Huss 24
Ashbrook (2-0) @ Charlotte Catholic (2-1) Ashbrook faces a Catholic team coming off their first loss of the season. The Cougars are still going to be a tall order for the Green Wave.
My pick: Charlotte Catholic 35 – Ashbrook 21
South Point (3-0) @ Burns (2-1) The Red Raiders just keep on rolling. Coming off their first loss of the season, the Burns Bulldogs will have their hands full with Jaquan Brooks, Tyler Bray and company.
My pick: South Point 35 – Burns 14
T.C. Roberson (3-0) @ Crest (3-0) One of these teams will have their first loss of the season. The odds point to the Chargers walking away the victor. The Rams have never beaten the Chargers.
My pick: Crest 21 – T.C. Roberson 14
North Gaston (1-2) @ Hickory (2-1) The Wildcats are still looking for their first road win since 2007. But it won’t be easy as Hickory is getting better every week.
My pick: Hickory 28 – North Gaston 14
Shelby (0-3) @ Lincolnton (1-2)(0-1) Two of the areas traditional powerhouses have fallen on hard times. But one of these teams will see their luck change while the other could go reeling even further.
My pick: Lincolnton 24 – Shelby 17
Forestview (2-1) @ Bessemer City (0-3) Forestview will face a team with the mascot “The Yellow Jackets” for the second consecutive week. This game should also have the same result as last week’s.
My pick: Forestview 56 – Bessemer City 6
East Gaston (0-3) @ East Lincoln (3-0) The Warriors have fallen on hard times this year. It will not get any easier as they face a red hot East Lincoln squad. They are averaging 48 points a game.
My pick: East Lincoln 52 – East Gaston 13
Alexander Central (1-2) @ Kings Mountain (1-2) The Mountaineers are looking to get back on track after losing back-to-back road games. The Alexander Central Cougars are also hungry and cannot be taken lightly.
My pick: Kings Mountain 21 – Alexander Central 17
West Lincoln (2-1)(1-0) @ East Rutherford (1-2) The Rebels are trying to get back on track after being tripped up by Fred T. Foard last week. However, they have not had a solid track record against East Rutherford.
My pick: East Rutherford 24 – West Lincoln 21
Chase (1-2) @ Cherryville (1-2) Which one of these two teams will hit .500 tonight?
My pick: Chase 24 – Cherryville 13
Bandys (2-1) @ North Lincoln (0-3) After suffering their first loss of the season last week, the Trojans will probably take a lot of that frustration out on the winless Knights.
My pick: Bandys 38 – North Lincoln 6
Metrolina Christian Academy (0-1) @ Highland Tech (0-3) The struggling Rams probably won’t get their first win of the season tonight.
My pick: Metrolina 28 – Highland Tech 6
Breakdown:
Red Raiders still dominant
Many wondered how the South Point Red Raiders would fare after they graduated 27 seniors from last year. Well, the Red Raiders picked up right where they left off. Their performances the first two weeks have left more answers than questions. First, South Point rallied from 21-13 down to defending NCISAA champion Providence Day to go on to win 34-21.
The following week, the Red Raiders score 49 unanswered points after Lincolnton went up 8-0 in the first quarter. Then last Friday, they put a whopping 78 points up against East Gaston. That broke a school record in scoring. Their previous record was 76. That was back in 2003 when they throttled Berry Academy 76-6. The Red Raiders won the 3A state title that year. They also broke the record in single rushing yards for one game.
If this doesn’t convince you that South Point is still legit, then what can? The Red Raiders travel to take on Burns. The Bulldogs lost for the first time last week against Mooresville 28-6.
It’s Test Time
The Huskies have started the season on fire. They have outscored their first three opponents 152-14 and pitched two shutouts doing so. However, their opponents are a combined 0-8. The Huskies will face their first test this week as they travel to Concord. The Spiders are 3-0 on the season. The Spiders have outscored two of their opponents by more than 20 points in two of their games.
Ashbrook is 2-0 with a hard-fought 45-42 win over Olympic and a 24-10 win over winless Shelby. Ashbrook travels to take on Charlotte Catholic. The Cougars lost for the first time last week as they were upended 31-28 by Charlotte Country Day. That also snapped Catholic’s 26-regular season game winning streak. Ashbrook will have their hands full trying to stop Catholic’s Wing-T offense featuring bruising fullback Elijah Hood.
Who would have thought this?
Lincolnton was the 2A state runner up last year. They were 14-2 overall. Shelby, after a 1-4 start, made it all the way to the fourth round of the playoffs. This year, however, both teams are a combined 1-5 coming into tonight’s game. Shelby has not won a game yet and Lincolnton already has their first conference loss as they dropped a close one to Lake Norman Charter 30-28. Both teams are going to try and redeem their season with a win.
Saturday, September 1, 2012
Jaguars start fast, pitch shutout
Last week, things did not start off well for Forestview. Though they won 38-16, the first play from scrimmage resulted in an interception return for a touchdown. The Jaguars flipped the script on that one when they stopped Lexington for a loss on two consecutive plays. After that, Colin Munson returned an interception 25 yards for a touchdown.
The Jaguars defense would continue to torment the Yellow Jackets’ offense from there on. Forestview’s offense got rolling in the first half. They capped off a drive with a Logan Bradley connection to Isaiah McCaskill for an eight-yard touchdown. Colton Rouse’s extra point made it 14-0.
Lexington’s Raekwon Byrd was intercepted again in the second quarter, this time by Kameron Timmons. It was initially returned for a touchdown but it was called back due to an illegal block. But that did set up Bishop Ford’s four-yard touchdown run to put Forestview up 20-0. The extra point was no good. Rouse made up for it later with a 33-yard field-goal to make it 23-0 at half-time. Rouse added another field-goal in the second half. This time it was from 20 yards out.
Bradley added another touchdown for Forestview late in the third quarter when he hit Mykelti Armstrong for a 36-yard touchdown pass. The Jaguars put another score on the board in the fourth quarter. Moe Neal’s five-yard touchdown run made the score 40-0.
The Yellow Jackets threatened to score in the second half, but was unable to complete a drive. It did not help that they were without their starting tailback, Marquez Grayson. He missed the game with a high ankle sprain.
“We want to have something go right early.” Forestview head coach Chris Medlin said about Forestview’s interception on the first drive “We’ve had this happen before. Things start bad and then snowball.”
Medlin was also pleased with how Forestview kept making plays offensively in the second half. Last week, Forestview was up 38-14 at half-time but the offense sputtered.
“We finished!” Medlin said “In the second half we continued.”
“We got our butt kicked.” Lexington head coach Kwayu Graham said “Throw an interception first play of the game, jump off sides, lose focus, it’s disgusting. Coaches did a great job. We got to make plays.”
Forestview will be on the road again next week as they travel to Bessemer City. Lexington will host Davie County.
The Jaguars defense would continue to torment the Yellow Jackets’ offense from there on. Forestview’s offense got rolling in the first half. They capped off a drive with a Logan Bradley connection to Isaiah McCaskill for an eight-yard touchdown. Colton Rouse’s extra point made it 14-0.
Lexington’s Raekwon Byrd was intercepted again in the second quarter, this time by Kameron Timmons. It was initially returned for a touchdown but it was called back due to an illegal block. But that did set up Bishop Ford’s four-yard touchdown run to put Forestview up 20-0. The extra point was no good. Rouse made up for it later with a 33-yard field-goal to make it 23-0 at half-time. Rouse added another field-goal in the second half. This time it was from 20 yards out.
Bradley added another touchdown for Forestview late in the third quarter when he hit Mykelti Armstrong for a 36-yard touchdown pass. The Jaguars put another score on the board in the fourth quarter. Moe Neal’s five-yard touchdown run made the score 40-0.
The Yellow Jackets threatened to score in the second half, but was unable to complete a drive. It did not help that they were without their starting tailback, Marquez Grayson. He missed the game with a high ankle sprain.
“We want to have something go right early.” Forestview head coach Chris Medlin said about Forestview’s interception on the first drive “We’ve had this happen before. Things start bad and then snowball.”
Medlin was also pleased with how Forestview kept making plays offensively in the second half. Last week, Forestview was up 38-14 at half-time but the offense sputtered.
“We finished!” Medlin said “In the second half we continued.”
“We got our butt kicked.” Lexington head coach Kwayu Graham said “Throw an interception first play of the game, jump off sides, lose focus, it’s disgusting. Coaches did a great job. We got to make plays.”
Forestview will be on the road again next week as they travel to Bessemer City. Lexington will host Davie County.
Thursday, August 30, 2012
Gaston, Lincoln and Cleveland Week 3 Picks
Game of the Week: East Lincoln (2-0) @ Bandys (2-0): Last week, the Mustangs had a 41-17 lead at half-time over Hopewell before seeing the Titans mount a furious second half comeback. East Lincoln would escape with a 61-59 win. Their defense will have to step up this week as they prepare for Bandys. The Trojans have scored 67 totals points the past couple of weeks and have pitched two shutouts. Between the Mustangs high-powered offense and the Trojans stingy defense, something is going to have to give. One thing to look at though is that the teams Bandys has played likely do not have the offensive firepower that East Lincoln has.
My pick: East Lincoln 24 – Bandys 21
Crest (2-0) @ Shelby (0-2): On paper, this looks like it could be a lopsided Chargers victory. The Golden Lions have struggled the first two games being outscored 68-10. The Chargers, though, are 2-0 and looking to stay undefeated. Shelby started the season 1-4 and Crest was their only win in that five game stretch. The Chargers are looking for a different result this year and Shelby is hoping to break into the win column tonight. With this being a rivalry game, anything can happen.
My pick: Crest 21 – Shelby 7
Burns (1-1) @ Mooresville (1-1): Last year’s game between the two was a shootout the first half. But then Burns pulled away with a 35-14 victory. The Bulldogs have not put up the offensive numbers like they have last year, but their defense has been stout so far this year. Burns opened the year losing a tough one to Crest 14-13, but won the following week against Kings Mountain 20-12. Look for this one to be another low-scoring competitive match.
My pick: Burns 20 – Mooresville 14
East Gaston (0-2) @ South Point (2-0): This is actually supposed to be at East Gaston, but due to renovations being done at Arrowhead Stadium, they are having it at South Point’s Lineberger Stadium. The annual Black Friday meeting this year could have the same results as last year with South Point picking up where they left off last year and East Gaston struggling heavily.
My pick: South Point 56 – East Gaston 6
Forestview (1-1) @ Lexington (1-1): Twice these two teams tried to get their game in last year. Both times mother nature had other ideas. The game was canceled due to thunderstorms in the area. Will mother nature hold for these two this year? Forestview rebounded from their season-opening loss nicely by beating Clover 38-16. But the Jaguars must put two halves together in order to keep that success going.
My pick: Forestview 31 – Lexington 21
Garinger (0-1) @ Hunter Huss (2-0): This one should be another game the Huskies totally dominate in. The Wildcats have only played one game this year in which they lost 41-0. Ironically, the team that beat them is coming off two straight blowout losses as well.
My pick: Hunter Huss 56 – Garinger 0
North Gaston (1-1) @ East Rutherford (0-2): North Gaston snapped a long on-the-field winless streak last week. Now, they have a chance to snap another long streak. The Wildcats can get their first road win since 2007 when they advanced to the 3A state title game with a 35-34 win over Asheville.
My pick: North Gaston 21 – East Rutherford 13
Kings Mountain (1-1) @ Weddington (2-0): The Mountaineers offense was slowed down last week as they fell 20-12 to Burns. Now the Mountaineers must rebound against a hot Weddington team. The Warriors’ offense has averaged around 42 points the first two weeks of the season and the defense has given up an average of 19.
My pick: Weddinton 28 – Kings Mountain 21
Lincolnton (1-1) @ Lake Norman Charter (2-0): Another conference game takes place early in the season. Last year, the Knights were 2-0 coming into the game with Lincolnton. The Wolves hammered Lake Norman Charter 55-7. This year’s Wolves team is much younger, but will still give the Knights plenty of fits.
My pick: Lincolnton 28 – Lake Norman Charter 7
West Lincoln (2-0) @ Fred T. Foard (1-1): The Rebels are hoping to stay perfect on the season. The Tigers hope to rebound from their 32-0 blowout at the hands of Bandys. The Rebels walked away with a 9-6 win last year.
My pick: West Lincoln 17 – Fred T. Foard 7
Cherryville (1-1) @ Draughn (2-0): Cherryville rebounded from their season-opening loss to Bunker Hill with a big win over Community School of Davidson 46-0. Now can Cherryville keep that pace going against an undefeated Draughn team?
My pick: Draughn 28 – Cherryville 21
Bessemer City (0-2) @ Chase (0-2): It’s been a rough start for Bessemer City. The Yellow Jackets in two weeks have been outscored 86-6. The troubles could continue as they travel to Chase.
My pick: Chase 42 – Bessemer City 6
North Lincoln (0-2) @ Bunker Hill (2-0): Struggles continue for the North Lincoln Knights. Unfortunately, they will likely not get better tonight as they face an undefeated Bunker Hill squad.
Bunker Hill 31 – North Lincoln 6
Village Christian Academy (0-2) @ Highland Tech (0-2): Could this be the Rams best chance at getting a win? Better yet, will they even put points on the board?
My pick: Village Christian Academy 28 – Highland Tech 6
My pick: East Lincoln 24 – Bandys 21
Crest (2-0) @ Shelby (0-2): On paper, this looks like it could be a lopsided Chargers victory. The Golden Lions have struggled the first two games being outscored 68-10. The Chargers, though, are 2-0 and looking to stay undefeated. Shelby started the season 1-4 and Crest was their only win in that five game stretch. The Chargers are looking for a different result this year and Shelby is hoping to break into the win column tonight. With this being a rivalry game, anything can happen.
My pick: Crest 21 – Shelby 7
Burns (1-1) @ Mooresville (1-1): Last year’s game between the two was a shootout the first half. But then Burns pulled away with a 35-14 victory. The Bulldogs have not put up the offensive numbers like they have last year, but their defense has been stout so far this year. Burns opened the year losing a tough one to Crest 14-13, but won the following week against Kings Mountain 20-12. Look for this one to be another low-scoring competitive match.
My pick: Burns 20 – Mooresville 14
East Gaston (0-2) @ South Point (2-0): This is actually supposed to be at East Gaston, but due to renovations being done at Arrowhead Stadium, they are having it at South Point’s Lineberger Stadium. The annual Black Friday meeting this year could have the same results as last year with South Point picking up where they left off last year and East Gaston struggling heavily.
My pick: South Point 56 – East Gaston 6
Forestview (1-1) @ Lexington (1-1): Twice these two teams tried to get their game in last year. Both times mother nature had other ideas. The game was canceled due to thunderstorms in the area. Will mother nature hold for these two this year? Forestview rebounded from their season-opening loss nicely by beating Clover 38-16. But the Jaguars must put two halves together in order to keep that success going.
My pick: Forestview 31 – Lexington 21
Garinger (0-1) @ Hunter Huss (2-0): This one should be another game the Huskies totally dominate in. The Wildcats have only played one game this year in which they lost 41-0. Ironically, the team that beat them is coming off two straight blowout losses as well.
My pick: Hunter Huss 56 – Garinger 0
North Gaston (1-1) @ East Rutherford (0-2): North Gaston snapped a long on-the-field winless streak last week. Now, they have a chance to snap another long streak. The Wildcats can get their first road win since 2007 when they advanced to the 3A state title game with a 35-34 win over Asheville.
My pick: North Gaston 21 – East Rutherford 13
Kings Mountain (1-1) @ Weddington (2-0): The Mountaineers offense was slowed down last week as they fell 20-12 to Burns. Now the Mountaineers must rebound against a hot Weddington team. The Warriors’ offense has averaged around 42 points the first two weeks of the season and the defense has given up an average of 19.
My pick: Weddinton 28 – Kings Mountain 21
Lincolnton (1-1) @ Lake Norman Charter (2-0): Another conference game takes place early in the season. Last year, the Knights were 2-0 coming into the game with Lincolnton. The Wolves hammered Lake Norman Charter 55-7. This year’s Wolves team is much younger, but will still give the Knights plenty of fits.
My pick: Lincolnton 28 – Lake Norman Charter 7
West Lincoln (2-0) @ Fred T. Foard (1-1): The Rebels are hoping to stay perfect on the season. The Tigers hope to rebound from their 32-0 blowout at the hands of Bandys. The Rebels walked away with a 9-6 win last year.
My pick: West Lincoln 17 – Fred T. Foard 7
Cherryville (1-1) @ Draughn (2-0): Cherryville rebounded from their season-opening loss to Bunker Hill with a big win over Community School of Davidson 46-0. Now can Cherryville keep that pace going against an undefeated Draughn team?
My pick: Draughn 28 – Cherryville 21
Bessemer City (0-2) @ Chase (0-2): It’s been a rough start for Bessemer City. The Yellow Jackets in two weeks have been outscored 86-6. The troubles could continue as they travel to Chase.
My pick: Chase 42 – Bessemer City 6
North Lincoln (0-2) @ Bunker Hill (2-0): Struggles continue for the North Lincoln Knights. Unfortunately, they will likely not get better tonight as they face an undefeated Bunker Hill squad.
Bunker Hill 31 – North Lincoln 6
Village Christian Academy (0-2) @ Highland Tech (0-2): Could this be the Rams best chance at getting a win? Better yet, will they even put points on the board?
My pick: Village Christian Academy 28 – Highland Tech 6
Saturday, August 25, 2012
Jaguars rebound, snap seven game losing skid to Clover
Last week, nothing went right for Forestview in their season opening 38-0 drubbing at the hands of Nation Ford. Things looked like they would go that way again for Forestview. On the second play of their first drive Forestview quarterback Logan Bradley was picked off by Jevaughn Starr and he returned it 20 yards for the touchdown.
It would not take Forestview long to rebound. The Jaguars would answer the call on their next drive with a Bishop Ford seven yard run. Clover started to hurt themselves with mistakes. The Blue Eagles mishandled a punt and gave Forestview great field position at the 12-yard line.
The Jaguars would make them pay when Logan Bradley hit freshman runningback/receiver Moe Neal with a ten-yard strike in the end-zone. Colton Rouse’s extra point made it 14-7 Forestview. The Jaguars were far from done. On their next drive Calvin Johnson hit Mykelti Armstrong with a half-back pass that turned into a 72-yard touchdown reception.
The Eagles showed an air attack of their own late in the first quarter when quarterback Scott Jackson hit Shawn Anderson for a 73-yard touchdown reception. Evan Edmunds’s extra point would make it 21-14. That would be all the scoring in the first quarter and that would be as close as Clover got.
In the second quarter, Forestview picked up where they left off offensively. Ford put another touchdown on the board for Forestview from the five-yard line. Calvin Johnson, who threw the half-back touchdown pass earlier, found himself on the other end of a 30-yard touchdown strike. Colton Rouse got in on the fun with a 33-yard field-goal to make the half-time score 38-14.
It was like a tale of two halves from that point on as Forestview’s offense sputtered in the second half. However, the Jaguar defense would keep Clover out of the end-zone. The Eagles got close to scoring a couple of times. The Eagles were stopped on fourth down at the Forestview 5-yard line and kicker, Edmunds, missed a 32-yard field-goal. The Eagles did manage a safety when a Forestview punt sailed out of the end-zone to make 38-16. That would be the final.
“We just got to get some continuity on offense.” Clover head coach John Devine said “We had some opportunities that we squandered.”
Devine also stressed mental toughness.
“Glad to get a win.” Forestview head coach Chris Medlin said “We need to do better in the second half. We need to play all four quarters.” Medlin was pleased his teams improvement, but hopes to see them improves as much next week as they did this week.
Forestview (1-1) travels to take on Lexington. Clover (0-2) is back home against Spring Valley.
It would not take Forestview long to rebound. The Jaguars would answer the call on their next drive with a Bishop Ford seven yard run. Clover started to hurt themselves with mistakes. The Blue Eagles mishandled a punt and gave Forestview great field position at the 12-yard line.
The Jaguars would make them pay when Logan Bradley hit freshman runningback/receiver Moe Neal with a ten-yard strike in the end-zone. Colton Rouse’s extra point made it 14-7 Forestview. The Jaguars were far from done. On their next drive Calvin Johnson hit Mykelti Armstrong with a half-back pass that turned into a 72-yard touchdown reception.
The Eagles showed an air attack of their own late in the first quarter when quarterback Scott Jackson hit Shawn Anderson for a 73-yard touchdown reception. Evan Edmunds’s extra point would make it 21-14. That would be all the scoring in the first quarter and that would be as close as Clover got.
In the second quarter, Forestview picked up where they left off offensively. Ford put another touchdown on the board for Forestview from the five-yard line. Calvin Johnson, who threw the half-back touchdown pass earlier, found himself on the other end of a 30-yard touchdown strike. Colton Rouse got in on the fun with a 33-yard field-goal to make the half-time score 38-14.
It was like a tale of two halves from that point on as Forestview’s offense sputtered in the second half. However, the Jaguar defense would keep Clover out of the end-zone. The Eagles got close to scoring a couple of times. The Eagles were stopped on fourth down at the Forestview 5-yard line and kicker, Edmunds, missed a 32-yard field-goal. The Eagles did manage a safety when a Forestview punt sailed out of the end-zone to make 38-16. That would be the final.
“We just got to get some continuity on offense.” Clover head coach John Devine said “We had some opportunities that we squandered.”
Devine also stressed mental toughness.
“Glad to get a win.” Forestview head coach Chris Medlin said “We need to do better in the second half. We need to play all four quarters.” Medlin was pleased his teams improvement, but hopes to see them improves as much next week as they did this week.
Forestview (1-1) travels to take on Lexington. Clover (0-2) is back home against Spring Valley.
Friday, August 24, 2012
Gaston, Lincoln and Cleveland Week 2 Scores
South Point 49 – Lincolnton 8
North Gaston 35 – East Gaston 6
Forestview 38 – Clover, SC 16
Ashbrook 24 – Shelby 10
Burns 20 – Kings Mountain 12
Hunter Huss 56 – Bessemer City 0
Crest 45 – Q Foundation 0
East Lincoln 61 – Hopewell 59
West Lincoln 49 – Highland Tech 0
Cherryville 46 – Community of Davidson 0
Maiden 28 – North Lincoln 7
Thursday, August 23, 2012
Gaston Lincoln and Cleveland Week 2 Picks
Game of the Week: Kings Mountain (1-0) @ Burns (0-1): Another Cleveland County showdown takes place tonight. Burns gave Crest a good game last week before coming up just short 14-13. Kings Mountain opened the season up with a 36-19 win over East Rutherford. Last year, the Bulldogs pitched a shutout against Kings Mountain (28-0). Look for this match-up to be more competitive than last year's game.
My pick: Kings Mountain 28 – Burns 21
Lincolnton (1-0) @ South Point (1-0): South Point’s sophomore quarterback Daquan Brooks put up big numbers for South Point last week. He accounted for 200 yards and two touchdowns for South Point and two touchdowns. Tyler Bray added three. The Red Raiders show no signs of being a team that graduated 27 Seniors from last season. Lincolnton, on the other hand, struggled on offense last week against Maiden. The Wolves scores came off a safety and a fumble return for a touchdown as they held off Maiden 9-7. They will need to muster up some offense in order to keep up with a dangerous South Point team.
My pick: South Point 48 – Lincolnton 14
East Gaston (0-1) @ North Gaston (0-1): North Gaston kept pace with a very good Asheville squad last week. The Cougars edged North Gaston 38-28. East Gaston had a much tougher time last week as they were routed 48-14 by Hunter Huss. North Gaston has not won a game on the field in 28 attempts. They were awarded a forfeit win last season against Hickory. The Wildcats are poised to get that illusive victory this year and tonight could be that night.
My pick: North Gaston 34 – East Gaston 14
Clover, SC (0-1) @ Forestview (0-1): Last week Forestview failed to register their first win over the South Carolina border as they were drubbed 38-0 by Nation Ford. This time, Forestview hopes to snap another streak. They have dropped seven straight to the Blue Eagles of Clover since beating them 27-20 on their first try. The struggles from last year continue for Clover. They were bounced 46-3 by South Florence last week. This will be Forestview’s best chance to end the long losing streak against their South Carolina foe.
My pick: Forestview 28 – Clover 7
Shelby (0-1) @ Ashbrook (1-0): Ashbrook got started on the right foot last week with a 45-42 win over Olympic. Not only did they win, but came from being down two touchdowns to do it. Shelby, on the other hand, struggled badly. The Golden Lions dropped their opener to A.L. Brown 44-0. It won’t get any easier for Shelby.
My pick: Ashbrook 35 – Shelby 7
Bessemer City (0-1) @ Hunter Huss (1-0): This game could get out of hand really quick. The Yellow Jackets were routed 30-6 last week by Bishop McGuiness. They will have their hands full against a red-hot Huskies team that is coming off a 48-14 rout of East Gaston.
My pick: Hunter Huss 42 – Bessemer City 12
Hopewell (0-1) @ East Lincoln (1-0): Last year, the Mustangs took down the Titans 39-24 in Huntersville. Last week, East Lincoln topped Newton-Conover 35-21. The Mustangs took two in a row from the Red Devils after dropping seven out of eight against them. Can the Mustangs make it two in a row against Hopewell?
My pick: East Lincoln 34 - Hopewell 20
Highland Tech (0-1) @ West Lincoln (1-0): Is it conference time already? Only for these two teams. Look for the Rebels to momentarily take the conference lead. With a shortage of players, the Rams hope they can keep everybody healthy.
My pick: West Lincoln 52 – Highland Tech 6
Q Foundation (1-0) @ Crest (1-0): The Chargers started the season off edging county rival Burns 14-13. However, the Chargers struggled offensively. Crest will likely have an easier time mustering up some offense as they host Q Foundation.
My pick: Crest 31 – Q Foundation 6
Pine Lake Prep (0-1) @ Cherryville (0-1): These two teams will be in a conference together next year. Cherryville had a rough time against Bunker Hill last week, losing 42-14. The Ironmen were plagued with turnovers. They should not have much trouble against Pine Lake Prep as they were trounced by Lake Norman Charter 62-6 last week.
My pick: Cherryville 49 – Pine Lake Prep 6
North Lincoln (0-1) @ Maiden (0-1): Both teams lost by a combined five points last week. The Knights dropped their home opener to Fred T. Foard 16-13. Maiden lost to Lincolnton 9-7 in a defensive struggle. Which one of these two will get their first win tonight?
My pick: Maiden 21 – North Lincoln 12
My pick: Kings Mountain 28 – Burns 21
Lincolnton (1-0) @ South Point (1-0): South Point’s sophomore quarterback Daquan Brooks put up big numbers for South Point last week. He accounted for 200 yards and two touchdowns for South Point and two touchdowns. Tyler Bray added three. The Red Raiders show no signs of being a team that graduated 27 Seniors from last season. Lincolnton, on the other hand, struggled on offense last week against Maiden. The Wolves scores came off a safety and a fumble return for a touchdown as they held off Maiden 9-7. They will need to muster up some offense in order to keep up with a dangerous South Point team.
My pick: South Point 48 – Lincolnton 14
East Gaston (0-1) @ North Gaston (0-1): North Gaston kept pace with a very good Asheville squad last week. The Cougars edged North Gaston 38-28. East Gaston had a much tougher time last week as they were routed 48-14 by Hunter Huss. North Gaston has not won a game on the field in 28 attempts. They were awarded a forfeit win last season against Hickory. The Wildcats are poised to get that illusive victory this year and tonight could be that night.
My pick: North Gaston 34 – East Gaston 14
Clover, SC (0-1) @ Forestview (0-1): Last week Forestview failed to register their first win over the South Carolina border as they were drubbed 38-0 by Nation Ford. This time, Forestview hopes to snap another streak. They have dropped seven straight to the Blue Eagles of Clover since beating them 27-20 on their first try. The struggles from last year continue for Clover. They were bounced 46-3 by South Florence last week. This will be Forestview’s best chance to end the long losing streak against their South Carolina foe.
My pick: Forestview 28 – Clover 7
Shelby (0-1) @ Ashbrook (1-0): Ashbrook got started on the right foot last week with a 45-42 win over Olympic. Not only did they win, but came from being down two touchdowns to do it. Shelby, on the other hand, struggled badly. The Golden Lions dropped their opener to A.L. Brown 44-0. It won’t get any easier for Shelby.
My pick: Ashbrook 35 – Shelby 7
Bessemer City (0-1) @ Hunter Huss (1-0): This game could get out of hand really quick. The Yellow Jackets were routed 30-6 last week by Bishop McGuiness. They will have their hands full against a red-hot Huskies team that is coming off a 48-14 rout of East Gaston.
My pick: Hunter Huss 42 – Bessemer City 12
Hopewell (0-1) @ East Lincoln (1-0): Last year, the Mustangs took down the Titans 39-24 in Huntersville. Last week, East Lincoln topped Newton-Conover 35-21. The Mustangs took two in a row from the Red Devils after dropping seven out of eight against them. Can the Mustangs make it two in a row against Hopewell?
My pick: East Lincoln 34 - Hopewell 20
Highland Tech (0-1) @ West Lincoln (1-0): Is it conference time already? Only for these two teams. Look for the Rebels to momentarily take the conference lead. With a shortage of players, the Rams hope they can keep everybody healthy.
My pick: West Lincoln 52 – Highland Tech 6
Q Foundation (1-0) @ Crest (1-0): The Chargers started the season off edging county rival Burns 14-13. However, the Chargers struggled offensively. Crest will likely have an easier time mustering up some offense as they host Q Foundation.
My pick: Crest 31 – Q Foundation 6
Pine Lake Prep (0-1) @ Cherryville (0-1): These two teams will be in a conference together next year. Cherryville had a rough time against Bunker Hill last week, losing 42-14. The Ironmen were plagued with turnovers. They should not have much trouble against Pine Lake Prep as they were trounced by Lake Norman Charter 62-6 last week.
My pick: Cherryville 49 – Pine Lake Prep 6
North Lincoln (0-1) @ Maiden (0-1): Both teams lost by a combined five points last week. The Knights dropped their home opener to Fred T. Foard 16-13. Maiden lost to Lincolnton 9-7 in a defensive struggle. Which one of these two will get their first win tonight?
My pick: Maiden 21 – North Lincoln 12
Saturday, August 18, 2012
Falcons crush Jaguars
Over the years, the games between these two teams have been competitive. This time last year, Nation Ford was up 27-6 before Forestview rallied to tie the game 27-27. The Jaguars would, however, lose the game 34-27. This game saw no such results. The Falcons jumped out to a 21-0 half-time lead and didn’t look back as the Falcons hammered Forestview 38-0.
The Falcons got on the board with a Dalton Helms one-yard pass to A.K. McCoy. The Jaguars would drive deep into Falcons territory, but were stopped and the 25-yard field goal was no good. The Falcons were just getting started. Helms extended the Falcons lead when he faked a handoff and dashed around left tackle and alluded tacklers for a 70-yard touchdown run. Corey Condron’s extra point made it 14-0.
With time running out and being backed up by penalties, the Falcons put another score on the board when Helms hit Dijuan Ussery for a 30-yard touchdown pass.
The Jaguars would continue to move the ball in the second half, but could not complete a drive. Forestview was stopped near the 30-yard line of Nation Ford on fourth-and-two. Things kept on going the Falcons way. Helms connected with McCoy again, this time for a 70-yard touchdown reception.
Condron got in the fun with a 23-yard field-goal to put the Falcons up 31-0. Helms put up his fifth touchdown of the night with a one-yard plunge up the middle into the end-zone.
“We challenged our team.” Falcons head coach Michael Allen said “We didn’t do well in the jamboree. (Tonight) we were catching the ball better, had better pass coverage. We executed better.”
“We are evolving offensively and defensively.” Allen said “We just have to get better and take what the other team gives us. (Forestview) is pretty good. We respect them. They work hard and they don’t quit.”
Nation Ford has now taken three straight games from Forestview. The Falcons will be home again as they host Boiling Springs. Forestview will be home against Clover.
Thursday, August 16, 2012
Gaston, Lincoln and Cleveland Week 1 Picks
Game of the Week: Forestview @ Nation Ford, SC: The Jaguars and the Falcons continue their border battle. The Falcons have played the Jaguars since Nation Ford opened up in 2007. This is their sixth annual battle with the Falcons leading the series 3-2. The Jaguars are looking to even the series at three a piece, but the problem is they have not won a game south of the border as of yet. The Jaguars are 0-8 when going south of the border. Could this team write a new chapter in that story? The Falcons are coming off their best season in their five year history. They finished 6-6, winning two conference games and winning their first post-season game in school history.
My pick: Nation Ford 28 – Forestview 21
Providence Day @ South Point: The Red Raiders open the season up with a new opponent. South Point no longer plays Clover and has found a formidable replacement. The Providence Day Chargers will make a trip to Belmont this Friday to take on a young South Point squad. The Red Raiders have graduated many starters from last year’s 10-1 team, whom took a shocking first round exit at the hands of Weddington 23-17. Now, the Red Raiders can start anew. They bring a much younger team, but a team that’s just as tough. Providence Day will be a tough opener, though. They are the defending NCISAA champs and are expected to be just as good or better.
My pick: Providence Day 27 – South Point 21
Ashbrook @ Olympic: A game that has been played the fourth or fifth week of the season is being moved up to week one. Last year, Ashbrook was riding a two-game winning streak until Olympic ended their fun. The Trojans won 34-28 at Ashbrook. The last time the Green Wave has beaten Olympic was in 2007. Ashbrook won the game 28-20. Can Ashbrook snap their losing streak to Olympic or will the Green Wave take another one on the chin. Olympic finished second behind Charlotte Catholic in the MEGA-4A/3A conference.
My pick: Olympic 24 – Ashbrook 14
Asheville @ North Gaston: After last year’s 63-14 thumping at the hands of Asheville, this is probably not the game that the Wildcats would like to start their season with. But North Gaston should be much improved over last year. The Wildcats went 0-10 on the field but scooped up a forfeit win against Hickory to give them a 1-9 record. The Cougars won their conference last year with an undefeated record. They were, however, tripped in the third round with a 28-25 loss to Crest.
My pick: Asheville 47 – North Gaston 14
Hunter Huss @ East Gaston: This will be the last year these two face off in a nonconference game. East Gaston is set to rejoin the Big South next year. The Warriors return only seven starters from last year’s team while Hunter Huss returns twice that number. The Huskies won last year’s game 39-32, but were outgained by East Gaston in yardage. The Huskies started the season 5-0, but lost their last seven including a first round playoff loss to Franklin 28-7. Both teams are hoping to improve from a 5-7 record last year. One player to look out for in this game is Hunter Huss RB Kerrion Moore.
My pick: Hunter Huss 27 – East Gaston 14
Burns @ Crest: Last year, Burns finally snapped a long losing streak to the Chargers as they trounced Crest 33-12. This is a new season, however. The Bulldogs will be bringing in new faces as they lost QB Brandon Littlejohn and RB Darius Ramsey and many players on defense. Crest loses RB/DB Rhahiem Ledbetter and DE Jonathan Bullard. Both are currently with the Florida Gators. The Chargers, however, return many other players on their team and could be a threat to take the Big South conference title. Look for this game to be classic Cleveland County shootout.
My pick: Crest 28 – Burns 21
East Rutherford @ Kings Mountain: This game, just like the Huss and East Gaston game, will be a conference game next year. The Mountaineers last year had a slow start going 2-4 before rallying to finish in a tie for third in the Big South conference. With 14 starters back from that team, look for a much stronger start from Kings Mountain.
My pick: Kings Mountain 31 – East Rutherford 14
Maiden @ Lincolnton: The Blue Devils have not beaten the Wolves since 2007. With only four starters back from last year’s 2A state runner-up squad this could be Maiden’s chance to take down the Wolves. But Lincolnton will still be dangerous and could keep the winning streak against their neighbors up 321 going. Lincolnton won last year’s game 35-10. This game tonight should be much closer. These two teams will be reunited as conference foes next year. They haven’t been in the same conference since the 2000-2001 school year.
My pick: Maiden 21 – Lincolnton 14
Newton-Conover @ East Lincoln: After dropping seven of the previous match-up with the Red Devils, the East Lincoln Mustangs broke through with a dominant 55-13 victory last year. The Red Devils break in a new head coach in Brint Russell and a young team. Can the Mustangs make it two in a row against the Red Devils? As if this series wasn’t beginning to get exciting enough, these two teams will be put in the same conference next year.
My pick: East Lincoln 28 – Newton-Conover 14
Bunker Hill @ Cherryville: The Bears and the Ironmen continue their series. Bunker Hill has won the last three meetings between these two. Before that, the Ironmen took four straight 2005-2008. Those four games are the only ones Cherryville has won in the series. With 15 starters back from last year, the Ironmen could be in position to add another one into their column.
My pick: Cherryville 21 – Bunker Hill 17
Bishop McGuiness @ Bessemer City: Bessemer City was idle the first week of the season last year. But they have filled that spot with Bishop McGuiness from Kernersville. The Villains finished 2-8 last year. Meanwhile, the Yellow Jackets are coming off a solid year. They started off 0-4, one of those losses became a win-by-forfeit. After that the Yellow Jackets won five out of their last six of their games before bowing to Hendersonville in the playoffs. Look for a much improved Yellow Jackets team tonight.
My pick: Bessemer City 21 – Bishop McGuiness 14
Chase @ West Lincoln: The Trojans are coming off a solid 9-3 season. The Rebels, on the other hand, are trying to put last season behind them. A win against a good Chase team could set the tone for West Lincoln.
My pick: Chase 21 – West Lincoln 13
Fred T. Foard @ North Lincoln: These two teams met for the first time last year. The Foard Tigers won the game 25-6. North Lincoln only returns eight starters from last year while Foard is supposed to be much improved.
My pick: Fred T. Foard 28 – North Lincoln 12
Victory Christian @ Highland Tech: The Rams start the year off with only 22 players meaning they will need to stay healthy in order to compete. It could be another bumpy ride for Highland Tech.
My pick: Victory Christian 21 – Highland Tech 7
Wonders throttle Shelby 44-0
Many around the area picked this to be a hard-fought battle between the Wonders of A.L. Brown and the Golden Lions of Shelby. Well, it was anything but. Brown took a 9-0 first quarter lead and a 16-0 half-time advantage and turned it into a 44-0 drubbing of Shelby. That’s their worst loss at home since 2002 when they lost 40-0 to Crest.
The Wonders got on the board early with a Kalif Phillips five-yard touchdown run. The extra point was blocked however. The Golden Lions started to doom themselves early when Spencer Clark threw an interception Kannapolis linebacker Gabe Lucero. Fortunately, the Golden Lions’ defense held and the Wonders had to settle for a 40-yard field-goal by Erik Amaya.
The Golden Lions kept moving the ball but never could complete a drive. They had a chance to get on the board in the second quarter, but kicker Manning Burton missed a 30-yard field goal attempt that bounced off the upright. The Shelby defense would continue bailing the offense out in the first half. But the defense would not hold for long as Robert Pinkston would add to Kannapolis’s lead with a nine-yard dash into the end-zone. The kick after was good.
This time last year, the Golden Lions rallied from 35-0 to score 24 unanswered points before Brown pulled away with a 42-24 victory. This night would see no such comeback.
The second half got uglier very fast for Shelby. They failed to move the ball on their first drive in the second half. Then the Wonders went back to work. Keenan Medley capped off the Wonders first drive in the second half with a nine-yard touchdown pass to Keeon Johnson. Ricky Sherrill got in the excitement as well with a 26-yard touchdown run. That put the Wonders up 30-0.
The first play in the fourth quarter, Phillips put another touchdown on the board for the Wonders. Malik Patterson capped off the Wonders’ scoring with a 73-yard run.
The Golden Lions will try and rebound as they travel to take on Ashbrook next week. The Wonders will try and keep the momentum going as they host rival South Rowan.
Wednesday, August 15, 2012
Kannapolis A.L. Brown @ Shelby (Thursday, August 16th)
Kannapolis-A.L. Brown @ Shelby: This time last year, the Golden Lions had a tough start of it. They started a new era without long-time head coach Chris Norman. They had to adapt to a new offense and as a result they started off 1-4. After that, however, the Golden Lions came to life and put together five straight victories. They won eight out of their last ten as they advanced to the fourth round of the state 2AA playoffs. The Wonders also had a deep playoff run and finished the season 12-2. They could make it no further than the third round, though. Tonight will start a new beginning for these two powerhouses as they face off in Shelby. The Golden Lions will look to avenge last year’s 42-24 loss in Kannapolis. Look for this to be closer than that game was.
My pick: A.L. Brown 28 – Shelby 24
Gaston County Border Battles Dwindling
Gaston County Border Battles Cut In Half
One long-time border match-up and a fairly new border match-up will not be taking place this year. Gaston County powers, Ashbrook and South Point, will no longer be facing Clover this year. The Blue Eagles dropped the Green Wave and the Red Raiders from the schedule this year but retain Forestview, whom they’ve played since 2004. The Jaguars won the first game of the series 27-20, but have lost the last seven.
The Jaguars will also continue their border battle against an improving Nation Ford team. The Jaguars will travel to Fort Mill to take on the Falcons on August 17th. This will be their sixth annual match-up. The Falcons lead the series 3-2. The Jaguars won two of the first three while the Falcons took the final two including last year’s 34-27 win at Forestview.
Ashbrook and Clover have been playing since 1997. Ashbrook won last year’s match-up 10-7 in three overtimes. However, the Eagles retained an 8-7 series lead over the Green Wave. South Point started playing Clover in 2008. The Raiders lost the first three series (46-42, 21-14, and 22-7), but came away with a dominating 63-0 victory last year.
Clover adds Spring Valley, South Florence and Boiling Springs to their schedule. South Point replaces Clover with Providence Day while Ashbrook adds Charlotte Catholic.
Other border battles in the past include Hunter Huss vs. Gaffney 1994-1999 (Gaffney won all six), Hunter Huss vs. York 2000-2003 (York won all four), South Point vs. Northwestern (the Trojans handed South Point their only loss in 2003 before the Red Raiders rolled to 15 straight wins to win the 3A state title), Forestview vs. Fort Mill 2006 (Fort Mill won 28-10), Forestview vs. Byrnes 2010 (the Rebels hammered Forestview 53-6).
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