The Hinesville Hurricanes dropped their first game of the season Saturday at Long Bell Stadium.
Hosting the Jacksonville Blackhawks, the ’Canes battled but lost 18-12.

Hurricane head coach James Sharp said the teams have developed an intense rivalry. He said his defense stood tough, but noted that when a rivalry is as heated as it is between these teams, one mistake can be the turning point in a game.

The ’Canes beat the Blackhawks earlier this season when they first met, but a few dropped passes and errors made the difference in the outcome Saturday.

The Hurricanes are still the top seed in the Universal Football league. The ’Canes are currently 5-1.

The ’Canes have a bye week now and return to the gridiron March 26 in St. Augustine, taking on the Putman Steelers.