The Spring Creek Gators take the field and line up for the very first snap of the game. (Kareem Brown|mountolivetribune.com)
SEVEN SPRINGS — The Goldsboro Cougars showcased a commanding performance from start to finish in their matchup against the Spring Creek Gators, securing a 48–8 victory. The Cougars struck early, capitalized on turnovers, and maintained control throughout the game.
First Quarter: Fast Start for Goldsboro
The Cougars received the opening kickoff and began their drive at the 43-yard line. Despite an early penalty pushing them back, a big quarterback run set the tone before a touchdown pass to No. 3 Brandon Louis by QB No. 5 Nehemiah McNair at the 9:47 mark gave Goldsboro the opening score.
Spring Creek’s first possession was short-lived. After a flag negated a long QB run, the Gators fumbled, and the Cougars recovered deep in Gators territory. Goldsboro immediately capitalized, extending their lead on another touchdown pass at the 7:50 mark to make it 12–0.
The Gators managed a strong return to the 40-yard line but were quickly forced into a fourth-and-out. The Cougars continued to move the ball efficiently, punching in another touchdown with 4:40 left in the opening quarter. Although penalties hurt their extra-point attempt, Goldsboro held an 18–0 advantage.
Second Quarter: Cougars Keep Rolling
Spring Creek appeared to gain some momentum after a facemask penalty moved them near midfield, and a completion from QB No. 7 Malachi Moore to No. 4 Darrius Edwards picked up more yardage. However, their drive stalled, and they were forced to punt.
The Cougars took over at the 38-yard line and quickly scored again, pushing the lead further. On the following kickoff return, the Gators fumbled, momentarily giving Goldsboro great field position but the Cougars fumbled on the ensuing play, and the Gators recovered.
QB No. 7 Malachi Moore strung together a pair of strong runs, aided by a Cougars penalty that moved Spring Creek across midfield. Still, the Cougars’ defense stood firm and forced a turnover on downs.
Goldsboro responded with another long drive capped by a touchdown at the 4:21 mark, plus a successful two-point conversion, stretching the lead to 34–0. The Gators were unable to move the ball on their next possession, punting once again. Just before halftime, the Cougars threatened with more big gains but were slowed briefly by penalties before No. 9 Gian Piedra of the Gators came away with a much-needed interception, stopping the drive.
Second Half: Gators Find the End Zone, But Cougars Close It Out
The Gators received the opening kick of the second half but were quickly forced to punt. The Cougars then scored on the first play of their possession, pushing the margin to 42–0.
Spring Creek finally got on the board after recovering a fumble at the 25-yard line. QB No. 7 Malachi Moore connected with No. 4 Darrius Edwards for the Gators’ first touchdown of the afternoon at the 10:21 mark. A successful two-point conversion run trimmed the deficit to 42–8.
Goldsboro momentarily stumbled on their next drive as No. 55 William Zapada of the Gators made back-to-back big defensive plays a hard stop on a run followed by a fumble recovery. However, the Cougars quickly regained momentum with an interception by No. 3 Brandon Louis that was returned for a touchdown, sealing the game.
Final Score
Goldsboro Cougars 48, Spring Creek Gators 8
Post Game Interview
After the game, I spoke with Head Coach Craig Smith of the Spring Creek Gators. Coach Smith acknowledged the growing pains of the season but remained optimistic about the program’s future. “Despite the shortcomings this year, we are building something here at the Creek,” Smith said. “I am so proud of the guys this year because, despite the losses, we never gave up and we played to the best of our ability. We are a very young team, but we will grow and get much stronger during the offseason.”
Coach Smith also praised the Gator fan base, adding “We are building a culture here that hasn’t been here before, so please give us time. We will continue to grow and get better.”Thanks so much Coach Smith for an amazing first season and good luck on inspiring the next group of Gators to turn the tide.
