The G.A.S. Pump (Sept 22)
September 22nd, 2007 Posted in College Basketball, College Volleyball, Youth Baseball, Youth Gymnastics, Alabama, South Carolina, High School Volleyball, Georgia, College Football, High School Football
Time to fill ‘er up at The Georgia Amateur Sports (G.A.S.) Pump, brought to you by LocalReplay.com. Enjoy our daily look at amateur sports headlines from around the State of Georgia.
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High School Football
“Walton upset the top-ranked Hornets 13-10 on Friday night at Raider Valley despite not scoring a touchdown on offense. Shreiner’s kick and an 80-yard punt return by Billy Burns spurred the Raiders (3-1) to one of the biggest wins in the history of the school. “I think we’ll probably just take off the reast of the season,” Walton coach Ed Dudley said. “There’s really no point in trying to top this.” Shreiner’s kick broke by one yard the school record set in 1998 by Newman, who played at Georgia Tech and Tennessee, also against Roswell.” Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
Clarke Central 22, Loganville 20: Evans’ last-second kick ends home losing streak
“Just as it appeared that the hex on Billy Henderson Stadium had wandered into the stadium again, Beau Evans booted the evil spirits deep into the darkness of the south end zone. Evans easily hit a 52-yard field goal with 1.3 seconds remaining to lead a rejuvenated Clarke Central past Loganville 22-20 on Friday night.” Athens Banner-Herald.
Cedar Shoals 30, Elbert County 14: Jaguars remain undefeated
“Just 13 seconds into the game Friday night at The Jungle, freshman quarterback Martay Mattox connected with senior receiver Trent McGuire on a 53-yard touchdown pass to ignite the scoring spree for Cedar Shoals. The throw was the first offensive play of Cedar Shoals’ 30-14 victory over Elbert County, but it wasn’t Mattox’s last. After the Jaguars added two first-quarter rushing touchdowns - a Hykeem Hall 14-yard run and a DeDe Lattimore 43-yard run - Mattox struck again.” Athens Banner-Herald.
Athens Christian 55, Georgia Military College 6: Eagles make Bulldogs pay for turnovers
“Georgia Military dug itself a hole with early turnovers. Dreco Bostic filled it in with touchdowns. A multitude of first-half fumbles fueled a 55-6 romp by Athens Christian against Georgia Military College on Friday at Eagle Stadium. Georgia Military (0-4) inflicted a lot of the damage on itself, losing five turnovers in the game and failing to convert a couple of fourth downs.” Athens Banner-Herald.
Winder-Barrow 10, Jackson County 7: Bulldogs slog their way to 4-0
“Like any coach, Winder-Barrow’s Brian Allison will take a win any way he can get it. Against a pesky Jackson County team, his Bulldoggs pulled out a hard-fought 10-7 victory at W. Clair Harris Stadium on Friday, even though both coaches agreed that the Panthers played a better game. Bulldoggs quarterback Greg Dixon completed 12 passes for 133 yards, including a 21-yard touchdown pass to Taylor Bradberry in the third quarter. Jesse McGee’s 34-yard field goal later in the quarter gave Winder-Barrow (4-0, 1-1 in Region 8-AAAA North) the extra three points they needed to hold off the Panthers.” Athens Banner-Herald.
Franklin County 14, Morgan County 0: Moon, Lions blank Morgan
“With his team stumbling through an offensive blackout, Jay Moon provided the spark and lit the way to victory. Moon’s 23-yard interception return helped setup Franklin County’s first touchdown, and the senior ran for a 38-yard touchdown in the second half to cap the Lions’ 14-0 victory over Morgan County on Friday. “The interception return was huge, and then the run at the end was huge,” said Franklin County coach Danny Durham, whose team improved to 2-2. “We needed to score again. We were trying to throw it but they were bringing linebackers.”" Athens Banner-Herald.
“There seems to be two different levels of speed around Atlanta. There is Tucker speed, and there is everyone else. And the state may just find that out by December. The Class AAAA third-ranked Tigers (4-0) literally ran through and past No. 6 St. Pius (3-1) 35-0 Friday night at Adams Stadium with Tucker’s first four touchdowns coming on runs of 64, 44, 47 and 51 yards. Derrick Harris provided the first two scores and ended up with 138 yards on nine carries as the Tigers’ wing-T proved to be unmanageable by a scrappy but overmatched Golden Lions defense. “Not in my 23 years of coaching have I seen a team with as much team speed,” said St. Pius coach Paul Standard.” Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
North Metro: Buford shrugs off early deficit
“Wesleyan receiver Nick Sissine’s 85-yard touchdown catch on the second play from scrimmage was followed by a few whispers about a potential upset brewing. Top-ranked Buford would have none of it.Buford answered Wesleyan’s early score with seven touchdowns and cruised to a 49-6 Region 6-AA victory Friday…Blessed Trinity 38, South Atlanta 0: Sam Burkhalter ran for 206 on 24 carries and scored three touchdowns as Blessed Trinity improved to 3-0…Campbell 55, Murray County 0: Everett Hunter scored on runs of 2 and 38 yards for the Spartans (3-1, 2-0 Region 5-AAAAA), and Devonta Wright passed for two touchdowns…Chattahoochee 35, Lassiter 32: Lassiter (1-3) bolted to a 24-7 lead on three touchdown passes by quarterback Skyler Vaughn, but Stephen Howard and Justin Smith each returned an interception for a touchdown in the third period for Chattahoochee (3-1). East Paulding 14, Alexander 3: Jahron Brown scored on a 2-yard run and a 25-yard fumble return for East Paulding (3-0, 2-0 Region 5-AAAA), which won its ninth straight regular-season game…Greater Atlanta Christian 41, Cross Keys 8: Senior tight end Christian Robinson caught three touchdown passes for GAC (4-0, 2-0 Region 6-AA), including a 65-yarder from Colton Chapple to put the Spartans ahead 28-0 after the Spartans intercepted Cross Keys quarterback Richard Feature on the previous play…Harrison 38, Woodstock 20: The Hoyas (3-1, 1-1 Region 5-AAAAA) got two touchdowns from Alphonso Griffin in the win over Woodstock (2-2, 0-2), and Robbie Godhigh, Darvin Adams and Jamal Austin added one each…Hiram 42, Savannah 13: Randy Crutchfield recovered a fumble in the end zone for one score, and Trip Mitchell passed for one touchdown and ran for another for Hiram (2-2)…Lowndes 42, Central Gwinnett 0: A year after spoiling Lowndes’ homecoming, Central Gwinnett didn’t come anywhere close to a repeat…Marist 35, Cedar Grove 25: Matt Lewis carried 15 times for 100 yards and a touchdown as Marist (3-1) held off the Saints (1-3)…Miller Grove 60, North Springs 0: Kendrick Ings passed for 250 yards and two touchdowns and rushed for 130 yards and another score for the Wolverines (2-2), who led 48-0 at the half…Milton 21, Pope 0: Lance Martin carried 27 times for 192 yards and a touchdown, and Toney Williams had 91 yards on 21 attempts and another score for the Eagles (3-1)…Norcross 48, North Forsyth 0: Norcross (4-0, 3-1 in Region 7) scored seven touchdowns and forced three turnovers in a dominating performance. Coupled with Roswell’s loss to Walton, it could vault the Blue Devils to No. 1 in Class AAAAA…Northview 41, Kell 34: Northview (3-1) drove 80 yards in the final 44 seconds for the winning score…Peachtree Ridge 28, South Forsyth 3: Quarterback Asher Clark and wide receiver Derrick Bryant combined for 132 yards passing on nine catches and one touchdown, all in the first half…Sprayberry 27, Centennial 7: David Carter carried 24 times for 176 yards and three touchdowns for Sprayberry (2-2), and Forest Holt added 151 yards and the Yellow Jackets’ other touchdown…North Gwinnett 43, Forsyth Central 18: Michael Tamburo completed 21 of 25 passes for 207 yards and two touchdowns and rushed for 66 yards and a touchdown in a little more than three quarters of play…Dacula 21, Madison County 14: Cody Davis scored on an 11-yard run in the second quarter to give Dacula the lead for good, then picked off Madison County’s Spencer Baird with 1:20 left in the game to preserve the win.” Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
South Metro: QB propels Stockbridge to 4-0
“So this is the type of offense you need to get to 4-0…Stockbridge’s first-team offense scored on eight of its nine possessions and compiled 372 total yards en route to a 49-27 victory against Dutchtown. It’s the first time since 1967 that the Tigers have won their first four games of the season…Fayette Co. 21, Woodward Academy 7: Fayette County senior Brandon Boykin had two rushing touchdowns from 47 and 39 yards to lead the Tigers (4-0, 2-0) past the War Eagles (2-2, 1-1)…Eastside 23, Lovejoy 16: Eagles quarterback Justin Wray threw for a touchdown and rushed for one to lead Eastside (4-0) past the Wildcats (0-4)…Banneker 20, McIntosh 0: Banneker senior Kacey Webb passed for three touchdowns to help lead the Trojans (2-1,1-0) past the Chiefs (1-3, 0-2)…Morrow 14, Newton 7: Morrow sophomore Kawoski Kitchens found Steven Jones for a 30-yard touchdown in the fourth quarter to lead the Mustangs (1-2) past the Rams…” Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
State report: TCC gives Tift first loss
“Thomas County Central used its vaunted running game and speed to knock the Tift County Blue Devils from the ranks of the unbeaten Friday night. The Yellow Jackets, ranked second in Class AAAA, rushed for 422 yards on 44 carries to defeat Tift 32-13…Athens Christian 55, Georgia Military College 6: Dreco Bostic rushed for 261 yards on 17 carries and scored two touchdowns to lead Athens Christian (2-2)…Bainbridge 23, Colquitt County 22: The Bearcats scored late in the fourth quarter to knock off the Packers…Commerce 38, Trion 30: Reuben Haynes rushed for 243 yards on 21 carries to lead Commerce past Trion…Dodge County 55, Crisp County 14: Cameo Holloway rushed for 128 yards on 16 carries and scored on runs of 21, 10 and 18 yards to lead Dodge County to the romp of the Cougars…Early County 34, Berrien 0: The Bobcats (4-0) were led by quarterback Michael Perry, who completed 12 of 34 passes for 171 yards and one touchdown…Gainesville 42, Lumpkin County 12: Justin Fordham completed 24 of 36 passes for 278 yards to lead the Red Elephants against Lumpkin County…North Oconee 43, Rabun County 13: Caleb Mooney rushed for 65 yards on 14 carries with two touchdowns as North Oconee improved to 3-0. Rabun County is 0-3…Randolph Clay 20, Brooks County 16: Running back Chris Clay led the Red Devils to the come-from-behind victory…Salem 14, Oconee County 7: Terrance Davis scored on runs of 11 and 9 yards to lead Salem past Oconee.” Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
Starr’s Mill powers past Westlake
“At times, the Starr’s Mill defense got pushed around, shoved around and run around. But the unit hung around and made enough plays when it needed to, as the Panthers prevailed 16-7 against Westlake. The victory kept Starr’s Mill (3-1, 1-1) from dropping to 0-2 in Region 4-AAAA, one of the most competitive in the area. The loss was the first of the season for Westlake (3-1, 1-1), which had come into the contest averaging 25 points per game.” Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
Fellowship Christian blessed with NFL talent
“It’s not unusual for former NFL players to return to their high school roots. Even John Elway is back on a sideline this fall coaching his son Jack, a 17-year-old quarterback in Colorado. What you don’t expect are four NFL veterans on one staff, especially at a Class A school in its fourth season of varsity football. The local school that’s put that together is Fellowship Christian of Alpharetta, which became a high school in 1996 and kicked off football in 2004.” Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
Etowah nips K-Mtn., stays undefeated
“Facing its toughest test to date, Etowah didn’t necessarily pass with flying colors. The Eagles took advantage of Kennesaw Mountain miscues in the form of penalties and a game-changing fumble to secure the 22-20 victory. A 27-yard field goal by Omar Lopez was the game-winner.” Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
Defense bails out Wheeler vs. Alpharetta
“Wheeler is known for tailback Corey Tower and its high-powered offense. But it was Wheeler’s defense and special teams to the rescue in a 26-21 victory against Alpharetta on Friday night.” Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
Douglass blanks rival Tri-Cities
“As Douglass and Tri-Cities head in to their respective region schedules, the Class AAAAA teams appear to be heading in different directions. It was evident Friday at Lakewood Stadium that the long-time rivals are worlds apart.” Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
“Cody Davis scored on an 11-yard run in the second quarter to give Dacula the lead, then picked off a pass with 1:20 left in the game to preserve a 21-14 victory over visiting Madison County at Barron Field. The Falcons moved 71 yards in five plays on their first possession to take a 7-0 lead. Cisco Barry blew untouched up the middle 45 yards for a touchdown four minutes into the game.” Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
“Bob Sphire rolled off the litany of mistakes like a grocery list. Five offsides penalties on the defense. Blown pass coverages. A roughing the kicker penalty. Poor special teams play. Four sacks allowed by the offensive line. Several poor snaps out of the shotgun and two interceptions by quarterback Michael Tamburo. A TD nullified by a holding penalty.” Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
“A year after spoiling Lowndes‘ homecoming, Central Gwinnett didn’t come anywhere close to a repeat Friday night. Lowndes (3-1) controlled the game from the opening kickoff, defeating the Black Knights 42-0 at Martin Stadium.” Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
GAC hammers hapless Cross Keys
“Friday’s contest with Cross Keys was No. 8 Greater Atlanta Christian’s last review session before a two-part midterm exam against top-ranked Buford and region contender Lovett.” Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
N. Forsyth no problem for Norcross
“The mercy rule was about the only thing that could slow down Norcross, but by then it was far too late. The Blue Devils bludgeoned North Forsyth 48-0, scoring at will before pulling their starters midway through the third period.” Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
“Wesleyan receiver Nick Sissine’s 85-yard touchdown reception on the second play from scrimmage was followed by a few whispers about a potential upset brewing. Top-ranked Buford would have none of it.” Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
P’tree Ridge pounds South Forsyth
“In basic math, 2 plus 8 equals 10. But for Peachtree Ridge against South Forsyth Friday, 2 and 8 added up to a 28-3 victory. Quarterback Asher Clark, who wears No. 2, and wide receiver Derrick Bryant, who dons No. 8, combined for 132 yards and a touchdown on nine first-half completions.” Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
Parkview shuts out Houston Co.
“A word of the wise to anyone cataloging Class AAAAA state-title hopefuls: Don’t forget to add Parkview to that list. Officially shaking the spectre of a 5-6 record last season, the program’s first losing season since 1993, Parkview stayed unbeaten at 3-0 with an emphatic, 17-0 victory over Houston County at McConnell-Talbert Stadium.” Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
Evans shuts down cross county rival
“It seemed every Evans fan wanted to snap a photo of the big scoreboard that stood beyond the south end zone. It read: Evans 28, Greenbrier 7. “We had one goal,” Evans coach Marty Jackson said. “Our goal was to win. It didn’t matter who scored, who carried the ball or who played. We just wanted to win.”" Augusta Chronicle.
“Thomas Jefferson’s Derrick Mathis has six colleges interested in him, and he’s only a junior. We find out why. Plus: Rewind last week’s best plays and meet more of the CSRA’s craziest fans.” Augusta Chronicle.
Hillary shows what Gamecocks will get
“Strom Thurmond’s Aramis Hillary a scholarship earlier this week because coach Steve Spurrier wants a dual-threat, mobile quarterback in the Gamecocks program. Hillary now has a new highlight reel to send to Columbia, one that will show Spurrier that he’s getting what he wants. Hillary rushed for a game-high 119 yards and led the Rebels on the game-winning touchdown drive late in the fourth quarter of a 14-7 victory over Silver Bluff on Friday night.” Augusta Chronicle.
Back piles up yards in Gamecocks’ rout
“Screven County coach Pat Collins acknowledged there’s still work to do despite his team’s 34-7 win over Westside. Still, the Gamecocks’ coach left Augusta satisfied with a region-opening win. “I was a little disappointed with being somewhat inconsistent on offense,” Collins said. “But when our guys had to go score they did what they had to do.”" Augusta Chronicle.
“A bad snap on a punt led to a go-ahead safety, and Westside-Anderson held on for a 22-14 victory over South Aiken at the Stomping Grounds. The Thoroughbreds (3-3) held a 14-13 lead over the Rams (5-0) midway through the fourth quarter when South Aiken quarterback Bucky Washington was sacked at his own 5-yard line. That set up a punting situation and the requisite long snap, something the Thoroughbreds have struggled with this season.” Augusta Chronicle.
“JEFFERSON 28, WARREN COUNTY 40 - Tommy Seals scored five touchdowns to lead Warren County to a 40-28 victory over Jefferson on Friday night…THOMAS JEFFERSON 57, BRIARWOOD 20 - Derrick Mathis ran for three of his four touchdowns in a 28-point First Quarter and Thomas Jefferson went on to roll to victory…CURTIS BAPTIST 63, YOUNG AMERICANS 0 - Brandon Davis and Deion Jones combined to score seven touchdowns as Curtis romped…AUGUSTA CHRISTIAN 21, PORTER GAUD 7 - Jay Harmon ran for two touchdowns to pace Augusta Christian…HEPHZIBAH 41, BUTLER 14…Eugene Moore ran for three touchdowns as Laney cruised to a 35-0 victory over Metter on Friday night…LAKESIDE 26, ARC 7…” Augusta Chronicle.
Starr’s Mill picks up first region win, 16-7 over Westlake
“The Starr’s Mill Panthers picked up their first Region 2-AAAA victory of the season Friday night, defeating the Westlake Lions 16-7 at Panther Stadium in Fayetteville. It’s the second time this season Starr’s Mill (2-2, 1-1 region) has followed a loss with a victory.” The Citizen.
Whitewater stuns Creekside, 10-7
“Whitewater trailed Creekside 7-3 heading into the fourth quarter but quarterback David Byrd ran in a quarterback sneak for the winning touchdown. The Wildcats (2-2) held on for the win over Creekside thanks to another stout performance from their defense.” The Citizen.
McIntosh falls to Banneker, 20-0
“The Black Swarm defense had their moments tonight but there were few bright spots for the McIntosh Chiefs in their 20-0 loss to Banneker. Defensive standouts were Gavin Carlson, Ben Sims and Andrew Graham.” The Citizen.
“Taylor County coach Chris Kirksey’s game plan was to contain Brookstone fullback Wesley Kiggins. The Vikings executed their plan nearly to perfection in the first half, limiting Kiggins to 33 yards on 11 carries. With the Eagles focused on the fullback, Brookstone countered by giving the ball to its wingbacks on sweeps. Milton McCluskey and Alan Rothschild each had a 60-plus yard touchdown run in the second quarter leading the Cougars to a 35-0 victory on Friday night at Rex Knight Field.” Ledger-Enquirer.
Raiders storm past Blue Devils
“Their first play from scrimmage was an omen for the Columbus High Blue Devils. Senior running back Corey Gaines fumbled deep in his own territory as a light rain fell. The rain came harder and so did Shaw High as the Raiders sloshed to a 35-7 victory Friday night at Kinnett Stadium.” Ledger-Enquirer.
Receiver Williams picks up Panthers’ offense
“There aren’t many ESPN appearances at high school games, but Smiths Station receiver A.J. Williams put together a highlight-worthy outing against Dothan. The sophomore made his first start at wide out, moving over from the inside, or slot, position, and he made it count. Williams hauled in two passes for touchdowns and scored on a kickoff return to help the Panthers to a 24-6 6A, Region 3 win over Dothan Friday night at T.C. Britton Field.” Ledger-Enquirer.
Tigers’ defense preserves victory
“On a rain-soaked night, Harris County stopped Hardaway’s deepest drive with less than a minute remaining in the game to preserve a 6-0 victory Friday night.” Ledger-Enquirer.
“Alabama, Auburn, LSU, Clemson and South Carolina have all offered Carver High School senior Jarmon Fortson scholarships on the basis of his ability to catch the football. Fortson gave the college recruiters one more reason to like him Friday night at A.J. McClung Memorial Stadium. He showed them he can also throw the ball pretty well despite receiving rare opportunities to prove it. Fortson threw a 40-yard touchdown pass on a first-quarter fake punt to jump-start top-ranked Carver to a 46-9 rout of Northside in a game played with a running clock in the second half.” Ledger-Enquirer.
Enterprise tops Central to stay unbeaten
“Enterprise remained unbeaten with a 28-7 win over Central on a rainy Friday night at Bates Memorial Stadium in Enterprise, Ala….Spencer’s two-game winning streak came to an end on Friday night as Troup cruised to a 51-0 mercy-rule shortened win at Callaway Stadium in LaGrange, Ga…Kyle Hoover ran for 166 yards and two touchdowns as Beulah rallied three times…Allen McCay rushed for 200 yards on 19 carries and the game-winning touchdown in overtime, leading Marion County to a win in Buena Vista, Ga.” Ledger-Enquirer.
“Glenwood scored 20 unanswered points in the third quarter to take command of a defensive struggle as the Gators stopped Tuscaloosa Academy 34-7 Friday night at the Swamp. “We didn’t do anything different in the second half than we did in the in the first half, just that everyone started doing their job and we looked better (on offense),” Glenwood coach Tripp Henderson said after the game. The big running star for the Gators in the third quarter was Marcus Woods. He ran for 57 yards in the first half and then added 86 yards, including two touchdown runs of 25 and 24 yards, in the third quarter.” Ledger-Enquirer.
“Cortez Puckett and Bernard Goodrum scored on 1-yard runs and Will Jeffcoat kicked a 29-yard field goal on a night where Spalding High stood tall in a battle of the last two unbeaten teams in Region 4-AAA by downing West Laurens 17-0 Friday. The Biggest accolades of the night, however, were reserved for the Spalding defense which stopped the Raiders on fourth down seven times, including five times inside the Spalding 34 until the Jaguars could post some points.” Griffin Daily News.
Griffin’s McMullins one tough customer
“Every defense needs a big, strong player in the middle. Rashaad McMullins is that player for the Griffin High Bears. The 6-foot-3, 310-pound senior, with a magnetic personality, first caught the eye of head coach Steve DeVoursney four years ago.” Griffin Daily News.
“Wesleyan head coach Franklin Pridgen had said that he doubted any football team would break a long touchdown on speedy Buford this season. But there was Wesleyan’s Nick Sissine racing into the end zone on the second play from scrimmage during Friday night’s Region 6-AA game. Thoughts of an upset vanished almost as quickly, though. Buford recovered in a flash and took control, beating Wesleyan 49-6 at Henderson Stadium.” Gwinett Daily Post.
North Gwinnett 43, Forsyth Central 18
“Friday night was the 50th homecoming in the history of North Gwinnett football and the Bulldogs celebrated in a big way. Led by four touchdowns from Tyler Jarry, the sixth-ranked Bulldogs topped Region 7-AAAAA foe Forsyth Central 43-18 to run their record to 4-0 overall and 2-0 in the region. Forsyth Central, which was coming off a bye week, fell to 1-2 overall and 0-1 in region play. Despite putting up big numbers on the scoreboard, North made more than its fair share of errors, a fact that head coach Bob Sphire did not overlook.” Gwinett Daily Post.
“Any momentum North Forsyth built with its opening-game onside kick, Tyler Maloof stole three plays later. After picking up one of its four first-half first downs North Forsyth quarterback Eli Chester lofted his second pass of the game high over the middle and into the hands of Maloof at the 4 yard line.” Gwinett Daily Post.
“Just as a trainer brings along his top race horse, coach Jimmy Chupp is slowly grooming his Greater Atlanta Christian team for another playoff run. The Spartans reeled off their fourth straight win Friday night, routing Cross Keys 41-8, in a tuneup for next week’s game with defending region champion Buford.” Gwinett Daily Post.
Peachtree Ridge 28, South Forsyth 3
“Peachtree Ridge made easy work of South Forsyth Friday, beating the War Eagles 28-3 on their home field Friday night. The Lions (3-1) got the show started early as quarterback Asher Clark led Peachtree Ridge down the field on its first drive of the game and capped it off with a 9-yard touchdown pass to Derrick Bryant. Greg Johnson notched the point after and the score was 7-0 just like that with 5:38 left in the first quarter.” Gwinett Daily Post.
Winder-Barrow 10, Jackson County 7
“On homecoming night, it was a big dance to the finish. Winder-Barrow took no chances with overconfidence against divisional rival Jackson County. After a scoreless first half for both teams, the Bulldoggs ended in spectacular fashion with a third-quarter field goal from kicker Jesse McGee after a fumble recovery by Aaron Glazier. The kick was enough to seal a 10-7 victory. With the win, Winder-Barrow moves to 4-0 and remains on top in Region 8-AAAA Division A.” Gwinett Daily Post.
“Sophomore running back John Lee rushed 169 yards on 14 carries and accounted for three touchdowns as host Apalachee knocked off Alcovy 29-22 at R. Harold Harrison Sports Complex. Apalachee evened its overall record at 2-2 and will travel to sixth-ranked Stephens County next week in the Region 8-AAA opener.” Gwinett Daily Post.
Mill Creek 27, Collins Hill 24 (3 OT)
“Chris Boggs’ speed off the edge helped the Mill Creek football program turn a major corner on Friday night. The junior blocked two late field goals, the latter setting up teammate Baxter Smith’s game-winning kick in triple overtime, as the Hawks defeated host Collins Hill 27-24 on its homecoming.” Gwinett Daily Post.
Lowndes 42, Central Gwinnett 0
“Lowndes’ football team wasn’t very welcoming to its homecoming opponent, Central Gwinnett, on Friday night, defeating the Black Knights 42-0 at Martin Stadium. Heading into the contest, the Vikings (3-1) were bent on getting revenge on the Black Knights (2-1) for spoiling 2006’s homecoming with a 11-7 victory. This year, the Black Knights didn’t even come close.” Gwinett Daily Post.
“After jumping out to a 14-point halftime lead, the Dacula offense just wasn’t able to click in the second half. Fortunately for the Falcons, the defense didn’t skip a beat. Dacula stopped Madison County three times on fourth down in the second half and Cody Davis intercepted a pass in the final minutes to secure the Falcons’ 21-14 win on homecoming Friday night.” Gwinett Daily Post.
“The rain, the tornado warnings and the lightning all delayed the start of the Parkview-Houston County football game Friday night at McConnell-Talbert Stadium. But while the game did eventually start, Houston County’s offense didn’t get going until nearly three quarters had passed as Parkview won 17-0 in a Class AAAAA non-region game. The visiting Panthers never allowed the Bears to get into an offensive rhythm and preserved the shutout with a late interception.” Gwinett Daily Post.
Gwinnett grads take various paths to 4-year colleges
“Ideally every high school football player would qualify academically and would find their perfect college directly out of high school. But the recruiting process isn’t Utopian. A number of players don’t get that Division I-A scholarship offer they crave, so they head to a junior college or prep school to garner more recruiting attention. Some of those standouts have offers, just not from a college they’d like to attend.” Gwinett Daily Post.
Cavaliers coast to first win of the season
“Playing in conditions that screamed for turnovers, Mount de Sales managed to play flawless football en route to its first win of the season. Sparked by big plays from Blake Mahoney and Kyle Grant, the Cavaliers were able to secure a 47-19 win over Robert Toombs on Friday. “Getting this win put the wind back in our sails,” Grant said. “After losing our first three, we just needed a win.”" The Telegraph.
“Sophomore quarterback Ryan Smith had a hand in three second-half touchdowns to lead First Presbyterian Day to a 31-21 victory over Southland in the GISA Class AAA South region opener for both schools. Entering a bye week, the Vikings ran their record to 3-1. Southland remains winless in three tries.” The Telegraph.
“Not even a wet and soggy field could stop these two offensive machines from grinding out yards and getting the ball in the end zone. The Tattnall Square Trojans and Deerfield-Windsor Knights combined for 557 yards and 10 touchdowns on the ground. Still in the end it was the Trojans that got the win against the Knights by the final score of 45-27.” The Telegraph.
Irish fall just short in closing minutes
“There is a saying in football, “When on the road, play for the win.” That’s just what the No. 8 Dublin Fighting Irish did Friday against No. 6 Stephens County when, after scoring a touchdown late in the fourth to bring the game to 28-27, they went for two. Quarterback Rashard Smith tried to run in the two-point conversion which would have put Dublin up one with 1:34 to go in the game, but was stopped short. Instead, Stephens County was able to run out the clock to salvage a 28-27 win at home.” The Telegraph.
“On a night when a first-half rain shower turned Thompson Stadium into the soggy site of the Week 4 matchup between Mary Persons and Northeast, keeping a clean handle on the football was of utmost concern. That’s why it was fitting for the nail-biter - which Mary Persons led deep into the fourth quarter - to end on a fumble, pushing Northeast (2-1) to a 30-25 win.” The Telegraph.
Riverside, weather can’t slow Lemon
“While the rain that covered much of Middle Georgia on Friday night put the game between Stratford and Riverside Military on hold, it could not stop Stratford running back Marquez Lemon. Stratford won the game 32-23, and Lemon piled up 160 yards on 18 carries, including a 58-yard touchdown run before the rain delayed the game at the 7:41 mark of the first quarter.” The Telegraph.
Seminoles dominate another offense
“Whether or not Westside’s offense plays a complete game this season might not matter. That’s just how good the Seminoles’ defense has played this season, the latest example a 31-0 win over No. 9 Upson-Lee on Friday at the Bibb County Sports Complex in the Region 4-AAAA opener for both teams. Westside (4-0, 1-0) forced two turnovers that set up first-half scores before the offense starting clicking in the third quarter and ran away with the game.” The Telegraph.
Scores, boxes, Sept. 22 The Telegraph.
Cougars race to 35-0 halftime lead, crush Bulldogs
“The Cougars settled this one early. Blitzing hapless Lithonia for four first quarter touchdowns Friday, Newnan went on to blast the Bulldogs, 52-0, on Homecoming night at Drake Stadium. Quarterback Russell Powell threw for two touchdowns, both to Alan Bonner, and ran for another while the Cougar defense registered its second straight shutout, the first for a Newnan team since the 2004 Cougars blanked Decatur and Fayette County on back-to-back weekends.” The Times-Herald.
Metz leads Pinecrest past Hawks
“Mistakes and too much of Pinecrest Academy quarterback Michael Metz hurt the cause of the Heritage School Hawks Friday night as they lost a 33-6 GISA non-region contest on the road to the Paladins. The loss dropped the Hawks to 2-2 on the season as they prepare to face Nathanael Greene Academy at home next Friday. “We didn’t have the speed needed to stop their quarterback,” commented head coach Ron Beaucham. “He is a basketball prospect and he is a different kind of quarterback than what we usually face.”" The Times-Herald.
“Members of the Northgate Viking defensive football unit will see the likes of Mike Springer, Zay Foster, and Everett Hickman in their sleep in the days to come. The Villa Rica High trio of runners combined to rush for 251 yards as the Wildcats stormed into Henry Seldon Field on Friday night and took a 24-0 victory the Vikings in non-region football action. Hickman scored all three Villa Rica touchdowns and his 24-yard third quarter burst up the middle served as the back-breaker. It came with 5:47 left in the quarter and gave the visiting Wildcats, now a perfect 3-0, a comfortable three-score advantage.” The Times-Herald.
“Salem took care of business Friday night as they defeated Oconee County 14-7 at Evans Memorial Stadium in their last nonregion game before Region 8-AAAA South play begins next week. It wasn’t easy though as penalties and a hefty dose of Warriors’ running back Jamie Stephens kept the Seminole defense on the field for much of the night. “We held on,” said head coach Chad Estes. “I give Oconee a lot of credit. They came out with a great game plan and took it to us. That running back, he’s good. He came out and really put a test to us.”” Rockdale Citizen/Newton Citizen.
Pats get gutsy win over Paulding County
“The Heritage football team showcased its intestinal fortitude Friday night in a 27-20 win over Paulding County. Heritage led 19-6 at halftime, but Paulding County came roaring back in the second half with 14 straight points to take a 20-19 lead in the fourth quarter. But thanks to the strength and heart of Heritage, the Patriots were able to get a big nonregion win on the road and move to 2-2 on the season.” Rockdale Citizen/Newton Citizen.
Newton falls to Morrow, loses third straight
“The Newton Rams (0-3) showed signs of improvement Friday night against the Morrow Mustangs but still came up short as they lost 14-7. Running back Quinton Pooler especially did well for Newton as he gained 147 yards on 27 carries, including a 50-yard touchdown in the fourth quarter. “I think we were looking for a certain kind of back in our running game and he was definitely the kind of back we were looking for,” Collins said.” Rockdale Citizen/Newton Citizen.
Eagles reach 4-0 with win at Lovejoy
“Although we’re only one month deep into the season, for the Lovejoy Wildcats, it feels like they’ve been playing for an entire semester. The team has been on a free-fall ride since kicking things off in August and the roller coaster shows no apparent signs of slowing down as Eastside (4-0, 0-0) edged out Lovejoy (0-4, 0-1) 23-16 at Twelve Oaks Stadium. Eastside now leads the all-time series 2-0. Eastside quarterback Justin Wray was the difference maker, causing havoc for Lovejoy with his arm and his legs. The junior completed 7 of 12 passes for 61 yards and a touchdown. He also rushed for 93 yards on 10 carries with one touchdown.” Rockdale Citizen/Newton Citizen.
“Penalties plagued Friday night’s Effingham County vs. Ware County Region 3-AAAA football game. Some even called it “flag day.” The Gators were whistled for 17 penalties for a loss of 125 yards, while the Rebels received nine for a loss of 57. Despite the loss of yardage for Ware, the Rebels couldn’t stop the visitors enough as they marched to a 20-7 victory.” Savannah Morning News.
McIntosh County Academy overwhelms Country Day
“McIntosh County Academy coach Robby Robinson said the following with a big smile: “My guts are kind of wrenching right now. All the defensive coaches are sick about it.” The comments made perfect sense in the context of an impressive McIntosh County home victory on Friday night, 54-8 - spoiled only by Savannah Country Day’s touchdown in the last 45 seconds.” Savannah Morning News.
Battle of the Bulldogs goes to ECI - in overtime
“Emanuel County Institute used a great defensive effort combined with an opportunistic offense to stage a remarkable comeback Friday night over Toombs County. The thing more remarkable than the comeback itself was how ECI almost saw it slip away, as the Bulldogs were forced to overtime but salvaged a 42-35 victory in what may go down as the area’s game of the year.” Savannah Morning News.
“Too much Liberty on Friday night at Olvey Field. The Liberty County Panthers displayed speed and power while putting the clamps on Calvary Day during a 45-0 non-region win. Byron Calahan scored three touchdowns and Roderick Jones and Brandon Roberts had two apiece as the Class AAA Panthers (2-1) scored on their first seven possessions. It was an impressive performance from a squad that advanced to the state playoffs for the first time in school history last season.” Savannah Morning News.
High school roundup Savannah Morning News.
Jenkins falls late to Schley, 14-7
“The Jenkins County Eagles entered Friday night more than prepared for the visiting Wildcats from Schley County. However, the Eagles turned out to be their own worst enemy, as constant penalties and a very costly turnover lead to a 14-7 defeat at the hands of the Wildcats. After the game, Jenkins County head coach Chuck Conley gave his team a lot of credit, while criticizing his own coaching efforts in the loss.” Statesboro Herald.
“Rashad James completed 16 passes for 269 yards and 5 touchdowns as the Swainsboro Tigers stomped the Southeast Bulloch Yellow Jackets 48-7 Friday. Without running back Tharon Davis, the Yellow Jackets were forced to give a bulk of the carries to freshman fullback Dieon Evans, who responded by powering his way to several key first downs on third-and-short situations.” Statesboro Herald.
Screven opens region with 34-7 win
“Screven County broke open a close game with 20 points in the final six minutes to earn a 34-7 road win over Westside-Augusta in the Region 3-AA opener for the Gamecocks.” Statesboro Herald.
“Bulloch Academy senior quarterback Jordan Walker ran for two touchdowns and threw for two more as the Gators blasted Bethesda Day School 36-7 Friday night at Gator Alley. Walker scored on a one-yard sneak in the first quarter and a 12-yard jaunt in the third. He also connected with Darion Carter, a senior transfer from Screven County, on touchdowns passes of 12 and 32 yards. Senior wingback Ethan Lovett capped the Gators’ scoring in the fourth with a 49-yard run.” Statesboro Herald.
Devils demolish Wayne County, 35-6
“Statesboro had no problems Friday night with visiting Wayne County at Womack Field. The Blue Devils (3-0, 2-0) jumped out to a 21-0 halftime lead and cruised to a 35-6 victory to stay undefeated. “I think we exhibited some things, especially individually, and saw a little more intensity and a conscious effort to be thinking about what’s going on,” said SHS coach Steve Pennington. “So from that standpoint I think, yeah, we took some steps forward.”" Statesboro Herald.
Wildcats close out non-region schedule perfect
“The Villa Rica High School football team accomplished what it wanted to do with its non-conference schedule. The Wildcats wrapped it up with a perfect record Friday night as they defeated Northgate, 24-0, at Henry Seldon Field. Villa Rica (3-0) will join Carrollton, Haralson County and Sandy Creek (which has only played two games) as the four Region 6-AAA teams to begin the region schedule next Friday undefeated. The Wildcats, who won all three non-conference games on the road, will host Sandy Creek next weekend. Northgate (1-2, 0-1 Region 2-AAAA) stayed within a touchdown of Villa Rica for most of the first half until the Wildcats kicked a field goal before halftime and then added a touchdown in each the third and fourth quarter.” Times-Georgian.
Strong start not enough for Tigers
“The Jekyll and Hyde ways of the Temple football season continued Friday, as the Tigers could do no wrong in the opening half of its home contest with Adairsville. In the second half, though, it could did little - if anything - right. It’s a conundrum that Tigers coach Seth Rogers has had to deal with in every game this year, and one that left him scratching his head again following Temple’s 56-27 loss to Adairsville, despite busting out to a 27-7 lead until the final seconds of the second quarter.” Times-Georgian.
Red Devils even record with 14-13 road win
“The Bowdon Red Devils defeated the Greenville Patriots Friday night using the strength of their defense to capitalize on Patriot mistakes and to hold off a late surge in an attempt to rob them of their well-fought 14-13 victory.” Times-Georgian.
Blue Devils keep rolling with 24-14 victory
“The Bremen Blue Devils - ranked No. 7 in Class A - took their unbeaten record north to battle Darlington Friday night at Chris Hunter Stadium and their ground game proved to be too strong for Darlington as they posted a 24-14 win. The Bremen rushing attack was led by Kail Singleton (169 yards, 22 carries, 1 TD) and Marcus Coggins (78 yards, 7 carries). Clayton McIntosh added 18 yards passing and two rushing touchdowns.” Times-Georgian.
“A year ago, Lincoln scored to beat Valdosta in the final minute. The Wildcats refused to let that happen again Friday. David Arnold’s 7-yard touchdown catch with 2:37 remaining gave Valdosta the lead, and the VHS defense made a big defensive stand in the final seconds to help the Wildcats come away with a 21-17 victory Friday night at Bazemore-Hyder Stadium.” Valdosta Daily Times.
Vikings dominate Black Knights on Friday
“The Vikings started the game strong, and never let off the gas pedal. Lowndes wasn’t very welcoming to its Homecoming opponent, Central Gwinnett, defeating the Black Knights 42-0 Friday night at Martin Stadium. Heading into the contest, the Vikings (3-1) were bent on getting revenge on the Black Knights for spoiling (2-1) 2006’s homecoming with a 11-7 victory. This year, the Black Knights didn’t even come close.” Valdosta Daily Times.
“The Valwood Valiants escaped a tough Sherwood Christian team on Friday night to remain undefeated on a 9-0 victory. “It’s great to be undefeated,” said Valwood head coach Mike Patrick. “My hat’s off to Sherwood, they were a much different team than last year.” The Valwood defense was the star of the game, holding the Eagles to 123 yards total offense. Sherwood’s running back tandem, which had gained 698 yards through the first two games, was held to just 63 combined yards.” Valdosta Daily Times.
“Lanier County shut out Pelham 22-0 to win its first Region 1-A game of the season Friday night. The Bulldogs had big running games from Chris McCutchin and Dedrick Sermons, and the Lanier defense shut out the Hornets. McCutchin rushed for 134 yards, while Sermons ran for 96 yards and two touchdowns.” Valdosta Daily Times.
High School Softball
Lady Jags sweep ’em Lady ’Dogs
“Alicia Coggins and Cember Carmiachel each went 2-for-3 as the Class AAA No. 3-state ranked Spalding High softball team downed Mary Persons 8-1 Thursday to sweep the season series between the two schools.” Griffin Daily News.
Prep Roundup: Connelly’s one-hitter helps Peachtree Ridge blank Jones Co.
“Krysten Connelly threw a complete game one-hitter and struck out six to help Peachtree Ridge shut out Jones County 5-0 at the Brookwood Invitational on Friday night…Kensi Weir was 1-for-3 with three RBIs and Gabby Bedard went 2-for-3 with three runs scored and a stolen base…Ashley Berger (1-0) gave up two runs, five hits and struck out two batters in six innings to help Grayson beat Starr’s Mill 5-2 on Friday…Pitcher Melissa Higginbotham improved her record to 10-0 and helped Buford take a 5-3 victory over Collins Hill in six innings on Friday at the Brookwood Invitational…Ashley Razey finished the game 2-for-3 with a two-run homer, two RBIs and run scored, helping Buford beat Ola 7-4 at the Brookwood Invitational Friday night…Kim Mason pitched well after giving up three hits, one run and striking out six for the night, but Collins Hill got shut out 1-0 by Ola at the Brookwood Invitational on Friday…Amberlie Saxton hit a two-run homer, helping Mill Creek to a 7-2 win over Central Gwinnett at the Brookwood Invitational on Friday…Morgan Bullock threw six innings and struck out seven but Mill Creek tied Cherokee 0-0 on Friday in the Brookwood Invitational.” Gwinett Daily Post.
High School Volleyball
Hornets earn 16th and 17th wins in volleyball
“Savannah Country Day’s volleyball team improved to 17-6 overall this season with 2-0 wins against Swainsboro and Savannah Christian on Thursday night. Katelyn Hilliard had six aces for the Hornets against Swainsboro, while against SCPS, Caroline Bradley had 21 assists and Hilliard added seven digs and seven kills.” Savannah Morning News.
Savannah Country Day def. Swainsboro, 25-0, 25-10…Savannah Country Day def. Savannah Christian, 25-20, 25-19…Jenkins def. Windsor Forest, 25-20, 17-25, 25-23…Savannah Arts def. Beach, 25-15, 25-13…Savannah Arts def. Johnson, 25-10, 25-12…” Savannah Morning News.
College Football
“Valdosta State might have been the best team the Fort Valley State football team has faced this season. But its biggest game so far is today when the Wildcats travel to Tuskegee, which is the only SIAC team in any national rankings. Both the Wildcats and the Golden Tigers sit atop the conference with Albany State with 2-0 records. So while this game has a lot of meaning in the standings, Tuskegee head coach Willie Slater isn’t concerned with standings and rankings now.” The Telegraph.
Injuries keep Eagles on their toes
“It’s hard to believe a player could run for 253 yards and score six touchdowns and then be asked for a little bit more. That might be the case tonight for quarterback Jayson Foster when Georgia Southern opens Southern Conference play against Chattanooga. Foster lit up opponents during the first two games, but the Eagles (2-0) might need him more than ever as they open a three-game homestand that they hope can propel them to a better than expected 5-0 start. The next three opponents - the Mocs, Western Carolina and South Dakota State - are a combined 0-7.” The Telegraph.
Eagles look to continue momentum against Mocs
“After two games, Georgia Southern has shown its offensive hand - that’s put the ball in quarterback Jayson Foster’s hands. But when nearly every fan, player and coach in Paulson Stadium knows Foster is the central figure in a play, then what? With the element of surprise now a thing of the past, Foster and the Eagles may be forced in foreign scenarios tonight against Chattanooga in the Southern Conference opener for both teams.” Savannah Morning News.
Wolves hit the road for battle with 11th-ranked Newberry
“The University of West Georgia football team will wrap up its non-conference schedule tonight at 7 against a top-15 team when it travels to South Carolina to play No. 11 Newberry College. The Wolves (1-2, 0-1 GSC) are coming off 52-34 loss to Arkansas Tech last Saturday in their Gulf South Conference and home opener. The week earlier, West Georgia had given Division I-FSC Georgia Southern a scare in Statesboro before falling behind in the second half for a 45-21 loss.” Times-Georgian.
VSU Blazers face challenging quarterback
“So far this season, Valdosta State’s defense has been impressive, refusing to let an opposing football team into the end zone. Today, the defense will get its toughest challenge to date, facing Arkansas Tech. The Blazers open Gulf South Conference play at Arkansas Tech today, in a 4 p.m. game featured on Mediacom’s Channel 77.” Valdosta Daily Times.
College Basketball
SSU releases 2007 men’s basketball schedule
“Savannah State men’s basketball coach Horace Broadnax on Friday released the Tigers’ 2007-08 schedule, which is highlighted by games at Wisconsin, Colorado, Northwestern, Nebraska, New Orleans, Marquette, Maryland and Kansas State. SSU will play 31 games, including 12 at home.” Savannah Morning News.
College Soccer
“Freshmen Amanda Barj and Nicola Daffey each scored twice as the Savannah College of Art and Design beat Webber International 5-2 on Friday in the Florida Sun Conference opener for both women’s soccer teams. SCAD is 7-1 overall, while WIU fell to 2-6.” Savannah Morning News.
Lady Blazers fall to West Florida
“The Valdosta State Lady Blazers lost their second Gulf South Conference match of the season, falling 3-0 to West Florida 3-0 Friday night at The Complex.” Valdosta Daily Times.
College Volleyball
AASU defeats Lander Savannah Morning News.
Youth Sports
Youth roundup
“The Mill Creek Hawks 10-and-under travel baseball team won the United States Sports Specialty Association (USSSA) world series on July 22 in Southaven, Miss…Strong Start for Atlanta School of Gymnastics at Roswell meet.” Gwinett Daily Post.
One Response to “The G.A.S. Pump (Sept 22)”
By Daniel on Oct 1, 2007
I have to say, that I could not agree with you in 100% regarding The G.A.S. Pump (Sept 22), but it’s just my opinion, which could be wrong