Kinston’s Comeback Falls Short in Winterville

Written by: Kymonte Roberts

WINTERVILLE, N.C. — Kinston High School’s season opener ended in a 40-26 loss to South Central in Winterville.

“It’s definitely been an exciting week getting ready for the first real game of the season,” said Ryan Giesleman. “We went down 20-0 and battled back to make it a touchdown game and just couldn’t get over the hump. That’s just something we couldn’t do and [we’re] gonna work towards next week.”

Kinston’s early drives were marked by a three-and-out, a thrown interception by Qurron Ross, and a turnover on downs. The Vikings scored when sophomore Tyreek Cooper caught a 46-yard pass from Ross after falling behind 20-0.

Kinston forced back-to-back turnovers on South Central’s next two drives, including an interception from Jemorris Poole. A 13-play drive ended with a 3rd-down touchdown pass to Devin Holloway, and Kinston went into halftime down 20-14.

In the third quarter, South Central scored two touchdowns, making it 33-14. Ross found Cooper for a 20-yard touchdown, cutting the lead to 33-20. In the fourth, freshman linebacker Christian Ham intercepted a pass and scored, making it 33-26, but South Central scored again to seal the game.

Kinston’s comeback effort showcased a team with potential. The Vikings will take the lessons learned from this game into their next matchup against Greene Central.

“We have the talent and the heart,” Giesleman emphasized. “Now it’s about putting it all together and executing on both sides of the ball.”

The Vikings’ season opener may have ended in defeat, but the fight they showed promises a season filled with potential. Their next game against Greene Central will be a crucial test as they continue to grow.