Playing without injured starting quarterback Bradey Compton, the Catawba Ridge Copperheads struggled to keep pace with the Northwestern Trojans Friday night, falling 42-7 in the second round of the SCHSL 5A-D2 playoffs.
The Copperheads were forced to turn to junior varsity call-up Will Gambrill under center, and while the defense kept the game tight early, the Trojans’ explosive playmaking proved too much in the second half.
The first quarter was dominated by defense and punts. Catawba Ridge mounted one promising drive after taking the opening kickoff, getting a long pass to Colten McCauley before Northwestern intercepted the pass in the end zone, keeping the score 0-0.
Northwestern finally broke the tie in the second quarter with two successful field goals from Alex Bendt, taking a 6-0 lead into halftime. Catawba Ridge created a threat with a long run by Aaron Giaconia, but the ensuing field goal attempt was blocked by the Trojans’ defense. Catawba Ridge also recorded a sack in the second quarter.
The third quarter quickly turned into a rout, starting with a bang as Kameron Vance returned the second-half kickoff for a touchdown. Vance then rushed in the two-point conversion to make it 14-0.
Vance later added a rushing touchdown, and quarterback Xavier Means found David Flood for a passing touchdown, pushing the score to 28-0.
Catawba Ridge managed to break the shutout with a passing touchdown and a successful extra point, but Means answered immediately with a 3-yard rushing touchdown to close the third quarter with the Trojans leading 35-7.
Northwestern continued to pour it on in the fourth quarter when a pass was completed to Payton Vining for another touchdown. The Trojans’ defense tallied their second interception of the night later in the quarter, ultimately sealing the 42-7 victory.
Northwestern face’s Gaffney in round three of the playoffs.
Rock Hill lost on the road to James F. Byrnes, 24-7.
Playing at home, Indian Land defeated Hillcrest 40-10. Indian Land will face T.L. Hanna next week.
