by Hunter Dawkins
Not many surprises occurred from the War Eagles Stadium in Waynesboro Friday night, as the Long Beach Bearcats fell behind early. Only this time, there was no real rally, as the Wayne County War Eagles won the district game over Long Beach 48-24.
The Bearcats (2-5, 0-3) allowed two early touchdowns before Long Beach kicker Kai VanCourt drilled a field goal towards the middle of the first quarter, but Wayne County answered with a third touchdown scoring drive to post a 21-3 lead after the first quarter.
Beginning the second, Bearcats Quarterback Cade Crosby hit VanCourt on a 71-yard touchdown strike. The War Eagles countered with a touchdown drive and extra point to leave the halftime score at 28-10.
Coming into the third, the War Eagles jumped on the scoreboard early with a lengthy run to increase the lead 35-10 Wayne County lead at 8:27 left in the third quarter. Bearcats Receiver Kobe Cook nabbed two straight touchdown receptions from Crosby to keep Long Beach in the game.
The fourth quarter was owned by the War Eagles, who recorded two straight scores to make the final score at 48-24.
“I’m so proud of this hardworking team, passionate coaches, this loyal community for showing grit,” said Long Beach Head Football Coach Philip Pigott. “Sticking together and continuing to grow through these tough times we help us build this program.”
Bearcats Crosby brought in solid numbers again for Long Beach, going 13-25 for 255 yards and 3 touchdowns while receiver Kobe Cook had 8 receptions for 140 yards with 2 scores.
Running Back Dennis “D-Train” Andrews had 11 carries for 40 yards while VanCourt converted all three extra points, followed by a field goal and a touchdown reception.
