‘Canes End Season with Win

The Monticello Hurricanes ended their season on a high note Friday night as they defeated Hancock County 25-16 in Monticello.

It was senior night, and festivities recognizing the senior athletes were held before the game. Each athlete and his parents were introduced.
Then, the Hurricanes got down to business.

This win gave the Hurricanes six on the season, which made them playoff eligible, but the ‘Canes lost the tiebreaker to Greene County who beat the ‘Canes earlier in the season.
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As it has all season, the ‘Canes defense set the tone of the night. Hancock County took the opening drive inside the ‘Cane 10-yard line but were stopped on fourth down to give possession to the Hurricanes.

The game remained scoreless until the opening of the second quarter. With less than a minute into the quarter senior Kyle Davis took the ball 14 yards for the score. Junior Petey Tripp then added the extra point to give the ‘Canes a 7-0 lead.

The remainder of the half the ‘Cane offense could not get the rhythm going again as they fumbled inside their 40-yard line twice, but were redeemed by the defense both times.

Although struggling, the offense managed to post one more score before halftime. With only 44 seconds remaining before the close of the quarter, Tripp threw a ten-yard touchdown pass to senior Marcus Clemons. The extra point attempt failed, but the ‘Canes went up by two scores 13-0 going into halftime.

The Hurricanes kept up their pace as they went through the third quarter. Tripp added another touchdown, this one going to sophomore Alvin Bailey to give the ‘Canes a 19-0 lead.

Later in the half the Bulldogs of Hancock County were able to get on the board with a one-yard plunge into the end zone. They added the two-point conversion and cut the ‘Cane lead to 11, 19-8.

Early in the fourth quarter the ‘Canes added their last touchdown of the season as Tripp threw yet another score to senior Arlandos “Sweetman” Grier. This gave the ‘Canes an insurmountable lead, as they coasted through the rest of the game.

The Bulldogs were able to post one more score on the night with less than a minute remaining in the game.

Thus the ‘Canes ended the season with a 25-16 win over region opponent Hancock County.

The ‘Canes ended the season with a 4 and 3 region mark and a 6 and 4 overall record. This season was a major turnaround for the Hurricanes, as they had only managed five wins in the previous three seasons.

Head coach Doug Huff offered his feelings on the season, “Very successful season, we came a long way. We would have liked to make it to the playoffs but came up a little short.”

The coaches also added their thanks to the fans for their support throughout the season.

Although losing nine seniors to graduation the Hurricanes are looking forward to another strong season in 2004. Until then the Hurricanes plan to continue to work hard towards another successful fall.