‘Canes Defeat Putnam
The Monticello Hurricanes came up with an important region win last Friday when they defeated the Putnam County War Eagles 31-21 in Eatonton.
Monticello had not defeated the War Eagles since 1995. Big plays on offense and special teams helped gain the ‘Canes their third straight victory, bringing their record to 3-1. This mark already equals the total number of wins in the previous two seasons, with less than half of the season played.
The first Putnam drive foreshadowed what was to come of the War Eagles. Putnam took the opening kickoff 58 yards to the Monticello 42 yard line.
After gaining one first down, the ‘Cane defense shut down the speedy War Eagle offense, stopping them on 4th down to gain possession.
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Monticello was forced to punt but regained possession after sophomore Francis Pompey recovered a muffed punt return by Putnam.
On the next offensive play senior Kyle Davis took the ball on a sweep 33 yards for the first score of the game.
T.J. Glawson added the extra point, which put Monticello on top 7-0 with just over three minutes to play in the quarter.
Putnam County quickly recovered with a quick drive, which ended in a 21 yard rushing touchdown by the War Eagles.
Monticello answered Putnam’s call with less than a minute remaining in the first quarter when junior quarterback Petey Tripp connected on a 37 yard strike to split end Arlandos Grier for another score. Monticello ended the first period of play with a 14-7 lead.
The second quarter offered more fireworks from the ‘Cane offense. After coming up short on the first few drives, Monticello put up their third score of the night when, once again, Tripp and Grier hooked up for a score on another long pass, this one going for 60 yards. Glawson again added the extra point, putting the ‘Canes up two scores 21-7.
The War Eagles would not go away easily though. After an interception late in the quarter, Putnam capitalized with another long run for their second touchdown of the night. The first half of play ended with a 21-14 Monticello lead.
The third quarter was a defensive battle between both teams, as neither was able to put any points on the board.
Going into the last period of play Monticello was again able to capitalize on Putnam’s mistakes. Senior Kyle Gaston recovered yet another War Eagle fumbled punt return on the Putnam 18 yard line. Although not able to put a touchdown on the board, Glawson added a 35-yard field goal to extend the ‘Cane lead to ten, 24-14.
The War Eagles continued to come back though, as they blocked a Monticello punt which they recovered on the ‘Cane one yard line. Putnam scored on the next play to put the game close, with a 24-21 Monticello lead.
On the ensuing kick off Monticello put a dagger through the War Eagles hearts as Davis took the ball 90 yards for the score. This would end Putnam’s threat. The game concluded with the score of 31-21 in Monticello’s favor, one of the school’s biggest wins in recent history.
Upon being asked on his thoughts of the game Head Coach Dough Huff replied, “We played extremely hard,I’m very proud of them. I couldn’t ask for more effort offensively and defensively.”
Quarterback Petey Tripp, who went 6 for 11 passing with 150 yards and two touchdowns, led Monticello offensively. Arlandos “Sweetman” Grier was the recipient of 113 of Tripp’s 150 yards, and also caught both touchdown passes. The offensive line was commended for their extraordinary pass protection.
Junior Rett Bullard and senior Scooter Pennamon led the ‘Canes defensively with six solo tackles each. The coaching staff commended cornerback Francis Pom-pey for his play against Putnam. Kyle Gaston was also recognized for his play throughout the game.
Upcoming for the ‘Canes this week is perennial powerhouse Washington-Wilkes.
Monticello will look to continue their success and upset another region opponent. The game will be held in Washington, tomorrow, Oct. 10 at 7:30 pm.