JV Canes Lose to Pike Co.

The Monticello Junior Varsity Hurricanes lost 41-8 to Pike County recently.

“The score doesn’t really give an accurate description of how the boys played. We kicked off to open the game and held them to just three plays and then forced them to punt. We drove the ball well on our first drive but stalled on the Pike County 15 yard line,” said Head Coach John Graybill.

“Pike then scored on their next possession. We fumbled deep in our own territory on our next two possessions and Pike took advantage of the short field and scored both times. We then held Pike for the rest of the first half and most of the third quarter.

“It was a very physical game and we lost some key players to injuries. Pike scored late in the third quarter and two more fumbles led to Pike scoring twice in the fourth quarter.

“Julius Matchett broke outside for a 55 yard TD run late in the third quarter and he followed that up with the two point conversion.

“Defensively, we need to get better at reading the keys of the opposing offense and concentrate more on wrapping up the ball carrier.

“Despite the outcome, the team showed signs of promise. I was very proud of the way they battled the whole game and never gave up. I think that speaks highly of the desire and character of our young team, mostly ninth graders.

“They have improved since last week and we expect them to improve even more before our next game against Washington-Wilkes in two weeks.”

The JV Canes will face Washington-Wilkes at home next Thursday, October 11 at 5 p.m.