The Hinesville Hurricanes are one win away from being the Southern Conference champions of the Southeastern American Football League after defeating the Lowcountry Assassins 37-0 Saturday night at Long Bell Stadium.
The ’Canes will head to Columbia, S.C., Saturday to play the Flying Raiders on Sept.12. The Raiders beat the Hurricanes by 2 points (10-12) when they first battled in Columbia on June 27.
If they win the Southern Conference title, the Hurricanes will face either the Carolina Scorpions or the Spartanburg Upstate Vikings in the Sept. 26 league championship.
The ’Canes opened their first offensive drive with a completed pass from quarterback Frank Troupe to Kentarius Carlise for a first down. Three plays later, they faced a fourth down and short scenario and went for it. ’Canes running back Kendrick Badger set up another first down after three successful carries and a run by Troupe. Joseph Matavao carried the ball to the two-yard line and plowed through the line for a ’Canes touchdown. Ed Smith kicked the PAT for a 7-0 lead.
The Assassins tried to pass the ball, but Hurricane Charles Crossley intercepted it. Three back-to-back delay of game penalties cost the ’Canes and they were forced to punt.
In the second quarter, the ’Canes positioned themselves to score when Smith caught a Troupe pass and was brought down at the three-yard line. Matavao carried the ball for another touchdown. During the PAT, the ball holder dropped the snap but was able to pick up the ball and found James Sharp III in the end zone for a two-point conversion and a 15-0 lead. In the third quarter, Tracey Lewis ran one in from the 35-yard line and Smith kicked the PAT to go up 22-0.
The Assasssins tossed a pass to another Hurricane defender, Carlo Williams. Cedric Lovejoy carried the ball twice and Troupe found Carlisle in the end zone for another Hurricane touchdown.
In the fourth, the Assassins once again tossed the ball to ’Canes defender Crossley on their first offensive play of the quarter. Badger ran the ball and wore down the Assassins’ defense. They tossed another interception to Williams to set up the final Hurricanes touchdown, giving Hinesville the win.
The team is looking for sponsors to help them for their Southern Conference game. If you are interested in assisting the team call coach James Sharp at (912) 269-0830.