The Eagles received the ball first in wet conditions. After a few short runs, Eagle quarterback Brandon Horton was flushed out of the backfield and made his way to the endzone on a long run. A failed two-point attempt left the score at 6-0 in favor of the Eagles. The score remained the same until the second quarter. The Crusaders scored first in the second quarter and followed up with a two-point conversion putting the Eagles behind by two points. The Eagles answered with a touchdown on a screen pass to Andrew Phillips. Dallas Johnson topped off the scoring drive with a two-point conversion. Going into the halftime the Eagles led 14-6.
Returning from the halftime break the Crusaders received the ball and scored a quick touchdown. The Eagles had a tough time getting first downs, but did manage to score in the third quarter on the legs of Dallas Johnson. The Eagle defense bowed their backs and forced turnovers in a back and forth contest for several possessions. After a long completed pass by the Crusaders for a touchdown and a failed two-point conversion. The score going into the fourth and final quarter was tied at 20-20.
The Eagle defense forced a turnover in the fourth quarter and the offense drove down to pay dirt where Dallas Johnson bulldogged his way in for yet another touchdown making the score 26-20.
With three minutes left in the fourth quarter the Eagles turned over to the Crusaders. In danger of losing another contest to Kings Way the defense consisting of Wade Edwards, John McLemore, Dallas Johnson, Luke White, Brandon Horton, Ben Hiers, Zach Carter and Andrew Phillips did not let their hard work go for nothing. Backed down inside their own territory with pouring rain and less than favorable odds the defense stood one last time and gave the Eagles the State Championship.
The Eagles would first of all like to thank our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for giving us the victory and for being with us through every down of every game. Secondly, to our Coach Keith Wiggins, thanks for devoting your time and tireless effort into this team and being the godly example you are. Finally, the Eagle team who fought hard every second of the game from the youngest man to the seniors. Your hard work and devotion paid off. All the Glory be to God!
The Eagles will now travel to the National High School 8-Man Christian Football Tournament to be held at Panama City Beach on November 9 - 13. Good luck ACA and Go Eagles!
