Patriot’s Extinguish Flames 75-12
Written by: Ryan Pittman
KINSTON—The Arendell Parrott Academy Patriots took to Hodges Field on Friday night to face the visiting Liberty Christian Heat, extinguishing them with a decisive 75-12 victory. This was the Liberty's second-ever varsity game in their first season fielding a team. The Patriots scored 11 touchdowns during the game while allowing only two. Eight of the touchdowns came on the ground, while the Patriot defense forced three turnovers for touchdowns.
The Patriots were coming off an unscheduled bye week after their last scheduled game against Wake Christian Academy was canceled due to the impact of Hurricane Idalia in Eastern NC. Coach Matt Beaman was disappointed that the game was canceled but insisted it did not slow his team down.
"We were able to prepare for some games down the line.... First 8-man game of the season; we were able to get some of those formation plays in. I thought we did a good job executing," he said.
The Patriots got on the scoreboard on their second offensive play after stopping the Heat on their first series with a three-and-out. Quarterback #9 Caleb Sanderson sprinted into the end zone for 35 yards. Sanderson finished with three rushes for 107 yards and two touchdowns. He was also 1/1 passing for 3 yards. This completion was the Patriots' only passing attempt during the game.
As a team, the Patriots rushed for 377 yards. Other Patriots to find the end zone on the ground included #54 Mason Mooring (6-yard TD), #50 Thomas Jones (3-yard TD), #32 Tyler Hodges (17-yard TD), #8 Christopher Stimson (31-yard TD), #23 Cole Watson (69-yard TD), and #30 Luke Stocks (68-yard TD). The touchdown for Stocks was his first and only touch from the fullback position. Coach Beaman was extremely proud of Stocks and his whole team. When asked about his touchdown, Stocks had nothing but positive things to say: "The linemen did a great job opening the hole up, and [there was] just green grass."
Defensively, the Patriots were stout all night. They limited the Heat throughout the game and were able to cash in on three turnovers for touchdowns. #22 Kendy Ta and #6 Jeremy Snipes both returned interceptions for touchdowns. #23 Cole Watson also added to his rushing touchdown with a fumble recovery for a touchdown.
Looking ahead, the Patriots will travel to Rocky Mount next week to take on Rocky Mount Academy. This game will feature two teams that are very familiar with each other and usually play very tough, physical games against each other. Last year, the Patriots defeated the Eagles 38-35 at home in a very close and exciting game.
With this win, the Patriots improved to 2-1 on their season and look to keep the momentum going as they attempt to win a consecutive state championship. For more up-to-date coverage on the Patriots' football team, make sure to like and subscribe to Neuse News Sports.
