Falcons lose to Marlboro in region opening
– #4 Jermaine Jones forces his way into the endzone for a touchdown. PHOTO BY WILL JOHNSON
#21 Jershad Kennedy gets ready on defense as the ball is snapped off. PHOTO BY WILL JOHNSON
#5 Keenan Dubose runs up the field after catching a pass to gain a first down. PHOTO BY WILL JOHNSON
By Will Johnson
The Darlington Falcons fought hard but fell short in the game’s closing moments, succumbing to Marlboro County with a final score of 14-20. The Falcons, now at a 2-4 season record and fresh off a tough loss to Wilson, were determined to shift their momentum as they entered region play, having had the luxury of extra preparation time during a bye week.
Early in the game, the Falcons’ offense faced some initial miscommunications. However, the defense stepped up, minimizing their time on the field. The defensive squad demonstrated great pass coverage during the first quarter and applied pressure to the opposing quarterback.
Amidst the offensive challenges, a series of standout plays provided some much-needed momentum. The turning point arrived towards the end of the first quarter when #4 Jermaine Jones powered his way into the endzone, putting the Falcons in the lead at 6-0.
Marlboro County, though, proved they weren’t to be outdone. In the second quarter, they orchestrated a touchdown drive, followed by a successful 2-point conversion, which put them ahead at 6-8. The game evolved into a fierce contest, with both sides experiencing interceptions and sacks.
It wasn’t until the third quarter that the Bulldogs found the endzone once more, extending their lead to 6-14, despite a failed 2-point conversion attempt. An interception by #17 Darius Douglas for the Falcons provided the spark they needed. #4 Jermaine Jones rose to the occasion, securing his second touchdown of the night, while #22 Davari Wilson got a crucial 2-point conversion, knotting the game at 14-14.
With just 4:31 remaining on the clock and the Falcons in possession, they had to finish in the endzone. However, the Bulldogs had other plans. They forced a fumble from the Falcons’ quarterback, seizing the opportunity. They marched down the field in the dying moments, managing to score a late-game touchdown, leaving the Falcons with little time to respond, ultimately sealing their fate with a final score of 14-20.
The Falcons look to the future as they look to take on a 5-2 Camden team on the road for continued region play on Friday night at 7:30 pm.
