Written by Christian BatemanÂ
AHOSKIE, N.C. — Hertford County found its rhythm at the right time Friday night, closing out a dominant 42-6 victory over Roanoke Rapids with 26 unanswered points.
The Bears delivered their highest-scoring performance of the season, combining explosive plays on offense with a defense that came up with big plays throughout the night. With conference play approaching, Hertford County appears to be building momentum at an important point in the season.
Ayden Everette found the end zone twice on the ground, while the Bears’ defense added two interceptions returned for touchdowns as Hertford County controlled the game from the second quarter forward.
Hertford County got on the scoreboard first after Chase Everette made a big play on special teams, helping set the Bears up near midfield. A Roanoke Rapids penalty then moved the ball inside the 15-yard line, and Ayden Everette finished the drive by powering his way into the end zone from four yards out.
Roanoke Rapids answered with a touchdown from Malik Yellorday, tying the game at 6-6 with 10:03 remaining in the second quarter.
The tie would not last long.
Justin Bunch showcased his speed and elusiveness on the following Hertford County scoring drive, using a sharp spin move to make multiple defenders miss before racing into the end zone and giving the Bears a 12-6 advantage.
The Hertford County defense then took over.
Kunari Tann came up with an interception deep in Roanoke Rapids territory and returned it all the way to the end zone for a defensive touchdown. The play extended the Bears’ lead to 18-6 with four minutes remaining in the first half.
Rucker Nixon added another touchdown on a quarterback keeper, continuing Hertford County’s offensive surge.
The Bears continued to make plays coming out of halftime. After Roanoke Rapids took possession, Chase Everette intercepted a pass and returned it for another Hertford County touchdown, pushing the lead to 32-6 with 7:54 remaining in the third quarter.
Hertford County added one final touchdown when Everette once again found the outside and used his speed to break away from the Yellow Jackets’ defense, putting the finishing touches on a 42-6 Bears victory.
With conference play on the horizon, Hertford County enters its next stretch of the season with plenty of momentum following an impressive all-around performance.
The Bears will now turn their attention to a highly anticipated matchup against former Hertford County head coach Terrance Saxby and the New Bern Bears in a battle between two teams carrying the Bears name.