New Attitude and New Leadership: Rams Rise Defeating Undefeated North Pitt
SNOW HILL— In a game that can only be described as a battle of wills, Greene Central's Rams put their troubled past behind them to deliver a resounding 23-16 victory over the previously undefeated North Pitt Panthers. The win, a pivotal turning point for the 2-3 Rams, came despite missing key starters and underscores the resilience of a team seeking to redefine their season.
Overcoming Early Setbacks
The Rams came into Friday night's game with a 1-3 record, still reeling from a series of disappointments, including back-to-back-to-back losses and internal turmoil that resulted in two starters being dismissed from the team.
"The team we put on the field tonight had no distractions," said coach Jay Wilson after the game. "They had no outside influences, and the only thing these guys wanted to do was win tonight. We made a promise with each other last week in that dungeon [weight room/locker room] that we were going to come out here and play together. Win, lose, or draw, we were going to be a team, a family, and play together."
Rising to the Occasion
Quarterback Jordan Scott, who finished 6-12 for 45 yards, led Greene Central's offense with poise, setting the stage for running back Montrell Moore to score one of his two touchdowns early in the match. James Ballard, another standout, had 18 carries for 75 yards and a touchdown. He also had a critical interception that he returned for 25 yards.
Ballard and Moore combined for a potent rushing attack, with Moore contributing 6 carries for 65 yards. Their efforts were complemented by a staunch defense that forced multiple turnovers, including another interception by Michael Suggs and a crucial fumble recovery by Jalen Sutton.
Turning Moments into Momentum
After North Pitt finally found the end zone in the second half, cutting the Rams' lead, Greene Central answered with a 23-yard field goal by Derek Carrillo, going into the third quarter with a 17-8 lead. North Pitt wasn't done yet, managing a 25-yard touchdown pass to pull within one point, but the Rams’ offense ate up five crucial minutes off the clock. Montrell Moore then punched in an 11-yard touchdown to extend the lead to 23-16.
Sealing the Deal
With three minutes remaining, the Panthers had one last chance to tie the game, but Jordan Scott intercepted a pass at cornerback, essentially sealing the win. "We got my quarterback [Jordan Scott] playing both ways and getting an interception," coach Wilson praised.
As if to put an exclamation point on an unforgettable night, Jaylen Wynn ran for a 27-yard fake punt on 4th and long with just 49 seconds left. "And we got 'Mr. I am going to run the fake punt,' and if he hadn't got it, it would have been me and him tomorrow," said the Wilson, laughing. "They did what they were supposed to do, and we are both ways better for it."
What's Next
Greene Central will look to carry this newfound momentum into next week as they travel to face Southwest Edgecombe in another pivotal conference matchup.
The win not only bodes well for the Rams' upcoming matches but also serves as an emotional lift for a team that has overcome adversity on multiple fronts. This Greene Central team has unequivocally shown that they are, above all else, a family.
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