Liberty County’s semi-professional football team, the Hinesville Hurricanes, opened the season Saturday with an 18-15 win over the Jacksonville Black Hawks.

According to Hurricane head coach James Sharp, the Black Hawks were favored and proved to be tough.

The Florida team looked like they would honor the odds of winning, scoring a touchdown early. They took a 13-0 lead in the second quarter when they blocked a Hurricane punt and scored.

The Hurricanes looked to the running of Tracey Lewis and Joe Matavao. Lewis broke open for a 20-yard touchdown run. Matavao converted for two points.

The ‘Canes went into halftime trailing 13-8.

Long County High School drum line performed at halftime. The coach said the team also gave away prizes donated by United Military Care, Navy Federal Credit Union and VIP.

In the third quarter, the Hurricanes drove 50-yards and capped the drive with a five-yard touchdown run by Tashawn Lee. Again they converted their two-point attempt.

The ‘Canes were up 16-13.

The Black Hawk defense held strong, knocking the Hurricanes’ into their own goal for a safety and tying the game 15-15.

But, the Hurricanes returned the favor, pinning Jacksonville deep in their own territory and scoring a safety for the 18-15 win.

Defensively, Lee and Chuck Crossley each nabbed an interception.

This Saturday, the Hurricanes host the Tallahassee Wolves at 5 p.m. at Long Bell Stadium.

Admission is $5 for adults. Children, 12 and under, get in free.