By Dexter Hinson, Staff Writer
Sunday, August 31, 2008 — Friday night’s match-up between the Comets of North Stanly and the Eagles of East Montgomery proved that at least one half of Stanly County high schools can defeat one half of Montgomery County high schools...for now.
Losing to Albemarle last week, the Eagles were defeated by the Comets 28-12 Friday night as East suffered their second loss on their home turf in as many weeks.
The game started with the Eagles winning the coin toss and running all the way to end zone with the belief that they had scored, only to receive a flag.
With a returned kick, running back and the night’s lead rusher Bart Gramling gained yardage for the Comets, followed by tight end Jake Tester, who lead in receiving, in the next play.
With the first and goal at the 10-yard line, Tester went on to score the first touchdown of the night, followed by kicker Walt Peele, who added the extra point.
Gramling led the Comets with 88 yards on the ground while Tester led all North receivers with 30 yards.
The game continued with junior Devaunte Lilly scoring in the first quarter for the Comets and freshman Terrance Marshall scoring two touchdowns in the second quarter for the Eagles, with the score being 15-12 at the half in favor of the Comets.
Comet quarterback Doug Stevens scored the only touchdown of the third quarter just one yard from the end zone and also scored the only touchdown of the fourth quarter on a two-yard quarterback sneak.
Three interceptions highlighted the night for the Comets, with split end Cody Sabol, Gramling and offensive lineman Blaine Covington capturing the ball in the second and fourth quarters, respectively.
In his first year of coaching the Comets, head coach Jim Mason had the following to say about his first win (which was followed by a fireworks show):
“It’s been a real tough week for the whole team, but we showed we could come through. This should send a message to everyone because it’s all about the team, not just one person. We’re a family,” Mason said.
North Stanly’s home opener will be this Friday against First Assembly.
NS 15 0 7 6 28
EM 0 12 0 0 12
Dexter Hinson can be contacted by email at snaponline21@carolina.rr.com.
