The Tucker Valley Wildcats had an unanticipated home game this past Thursday. The game was originally scheduled to be at Liberty Harrison’s field to take on the Bridgeport Braves; however, due to heavy rains, the game was moved to Parsons. The Braves arrived with over 60 players for what is believed to be the first-ever matchup between the two schools.
The Braves would strike first early in the game as their signature multi-directional offense got them the early lead on a 54-yard run to take control 6-0. Tucker would mount a promising drive but would get behind the chains and be unable to convert on a fourth and long, giving the ball back to the Braves. Bridgeport would mount a long scoring drive and score on a 12-yard run to extend the first-quarter lead to 14-0.
The Wildcats would continue to move the ball but were unable to put it all together for a score before the half; however, they held the Braves and came up with a fourth-down stop on a crucial fourth and short.
The Braves got the ball to start the third period and punched in a 3-yard score to extend their lead to 22-0.
Tucker would then mount its most impressive drive of the game with several completed passes and third-down conversions on a drive that took over 10 minutes to find the end zone, as eighth grader Braylon Simmons barreled in from one yard out. The score would prove to be the final one of the game as Bridgeport took home the win 22-6.
Tucker Valley was led in rushing by Noah White with 16 carries for 54 yards, followed by Braylon Simmons on six carries for 20 yards and a touchdown. QB Bentley Haddix completed six passes for 57 yards, with three different receivers catching two balls each. Braxton White had two for 21 yards, Nelson Herron also had two for 21 yards, and Easton Wolford caught two for 15 yards.
The Wildcats now stand at 3-1 and will stay home this week for a Saturday matchup on October 3, as they welcome Clay-Battelle at 1 p.m.
