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Two Stanly high school football teams found themselves dealing with tragedy this week in the aftermath of Thursday’s homicide in Albemarle.

Both the Albemarle Bulldogs and South Stanly Rebel Bulls had a sibling on each of their respective teams related to Makayla Davis, who died this week in an alleged domestic violence incident.

In the case of the Bulldogs, on the road Friday night at Southwestern Randolph, the team rallied behind junior Kenny Miller in a 32-6 win.

On the Bulldog football team’s Twitter page, a video of the team chanting “For Kenny” was posted as Albemarle left the field.

After Southwestern Randolph (3-1) returned a fumble for a touchdown with 11.3 second in the first half, Albemarle answered immediately. Malik Watkins returned the ensuing kickoff 78 yards for a touchdown to tie the game 6-6 at the half.

The Bulldogs then scored 26 unanswered points in the second half, including a rushing touchdown from Kaine McLendon. Albemarle quarterback Ander Artis connected with Zyion Geiger for an 83-yard touchdown pass and with Jaylen Pinkney for a nine-yard TD pass.

“The win tonight was much needed, and it’s just a testament to the resiliency of this squad,” Albemarle head coach Richard Davis said. “They had their hearts broken the past few weeks; they came out tonight and continued to fight. I couldn’t be more proud of them.”

Regarding the tragic events the team dealt with this week, Davis said “it’s been tough, but the boys came together for their brother.”

Albemarle returns home Friday to take on Lake Norman Charter (3-1).