Hurricanes Fall to Union County 38-22
It was a tough night for the Monticello Hurricanes as they kicked off region play with a 38-22 lost to the Union County Panthers.
The Canes defense came out of the gate firing just like usual as #13 Gavriel McClain intercepted the Panthers pass on the first drive of the game. The Canes defense continued to dominate the Panthers as McClain caused a fumble that was recovered by #2 Jamel Gude. However, the first quarter ended on a poor note for the Canes as the Panthers scored a late touchdown giving them a 7-0.
The Canes offense was determined to make a big impact in the second quarter of the game as #14 Jay Fleetwood threw to #11 Graeme Williams for a Canes touchdown. However, a touchdown by the Panthers offense practically canceled out the Canes touchdown excitement. Sadly, the Canes attempt to counter the Panthers proved to backfire as the Panthers were able to score another touchdown, making the score 21-6. Despite this unfavorable situation, the Canes offense continued to fire strong as Fleetwood rushed for a touchdown. A two point conversion by #6 Mac Barton put the Canes within one possession of the Panthers. The first half however ended on a negative note for the Canes as the Panthers drove down the field to kick a field goal. The Canes went into halftime trailing 24-14.
The third quarter started on an unfortunate note as the Panthers scored a touchdown early into the play. The Canes offense came up just short of a touchdown on their next drive of the game thanks to a 25 yard run by #1 Dylan Jackson. Despite another close encounter the Canes had with the goal line, they headed into the fourth quarter trailing 31-14.
Once again, the Panthers drove down the field for a quick touchdown to start the last quarter of play. However, the Canes showed determination as Fleetwood made an exceptional pass to Jackson for a late touchdown narrowing the margin of the game and giving the Canes more hope. Despite this late touchdown and good teamwork shown, the Canes come up short.
Despite a Canes loss, this team continues to show gains in teamwork and running the ball. It was evident in this region game that the Canes have a team with depth. Fleetwood led the team in total yards with 278 including 193 passing yards and 85 rushing yards. On the defensive side of the ball, #33 Chance Hope led the Canes with 10 total tackles.
The Canes continue region play Friday, Sept. 21 as they travel to Rabun County to play the Tigers. The Canes kickoff their second region game at 7:30 p.m. in Clayton.