James Kenan’s quarterback No. 11 Eli Avent lining up the offense for a drive. (Kareem Brown photo)
GOLDSBORO — The James Kenan Tigers came out strong and never looked back in a commanding 49-7 victory over the Rosewood Eagles in the Eagles’ homecoming game.
Tigers strike early
The Tigers wasted no time, storming to a 14-0 lead in the opening minutes. After forcing a quick four-and-out from Rosewood, James Kenan’s RB No. 3 Jeremiah Hall broke free for a big 25-yard touchdown run, extending the lead to 21-0. Rosewood struggled to find rhythm offensively, committing penalties and facing relentless pressure from the Tigers’ defense. The quarter ended with James Kenan firmly in control.
Score after 1st Quarter: James Kenan 21, Rosewood 0
Second quarter
The second quarter opened with more trouble for the Eagles as a botched snap resulted in a turnover on downs. The Tigers capitalized immediately when QB No. Eli Avent connected with No. 4 Christopher Hill for a long touchdown pass, stretching the lead to 28-0.
On the ensuing kickoff, Rosewood fumbled, setting up James Kenan at the Eagles’ 32-yard line. A powerful run by No. 9 Cal Avent pushed the ball inside the five, and No. 0 Taulil Pearsall punched it in on a handoff from No. 11 Eli Avent. With the extra point good, the Tigers surged ahead 35-0.
Rosewood finally found momentum late in the quarter. RB No. 5 Bryson Hobbs carried the Eagles downfield, finishing the drive with a touchdown run to put Rosewood on the board. At halftime, the Tigers held a commanding 35-7 lead.
Halftime Score: James Kenan 35, Rosewood 7
At halftime, the Tigers’ versatile attack and disciplined defense had left the Eagles struggling to find momentum. James Kenan’s ability to mix big plays through the air and ground made them nearly impossible to contain.
Tigers extend the lead
The Tigers continued their domination in the second half. After receiving the kickoff, the Eagles were quickly forced into a four-and-out. James Kenan’s No. 3 Jeremiah Hall runs in another touchdown, pushing the lead to 42-7.
Despite some hard-fought yardage from the Eagles, turnovers and penalties repeatedly thwarted their attempts to rally. James Kenan capitalized with another touchdown, this time from No. 15 David Zeleya, putting the game out of reach at 49-7. A key interception by No. 15 David Zeleya late in the game sealed the outcome, cementing the Tigers’ dominance on both sides of the ball.
Next up
Looking ahead, the James Kenan Tigers will face Midway on October 3 in their next home matchup. This should be an exciting one being that both James Kenan and Midway are both 2-0 in the 2A/3A Swine Valley Conference standings in a battle for first place. Best of luck to Head Coach Tim Grady, the staff, and the James Kenan Tigers teams.
