The Hinesville Hurricanes improved to 3-0 in their quest for a second-consecutive Southeastern American Football League championship, defeating the Anderson Red Dawgs 34-19 Saturday in South Carolina.
The Hurricanes beat the Red Dawgs for the SEAFL title in 2010.
 Hinesville used running backs Kendrick Badger, Devon Grey and Joseph Matavao as well as defensive player Charles Crossley to put points on the board in the win. The ‘Canes scored on their first drive off a 12-yard run by Grey, but the two-point conversion attempt failed.
The Red Dawgs answered with a 14-yard touchdown run and successful extra point kick to take a 7-6 lead.
It was the home team’s only lead of the night.
In the second quarter, Crossley picked off a pass and ran it back 52 yards for a score. Hinesville quarterback Frank Troupe connected with Badger on a 17-yard touchdown pass. The ‘Canes went for another two-point conversion and Matavao plowed through the line to put Hinesville up 20-7.
The Red Dawgs cut the score to 20-13 before the half ended.
In the third quarter, Grey had another long run but was brought down at the 5. Matavao scored and Badger was able to run it in for the two-point conversion to give Hinesville a 28-13 advantage going into the fourth quarter.
Badger added to the ‘Canes score with a 25-yard TD run. The Red Dawgs were able to add one more touchdown late in the game.
“We both went in there 2-0 and they were the team we played in the championship game last year,” Hurricanes coach James Sharp said. “But we came out 3-0 and they came out 2-1. Our players are really showing their commitment to having a winning season and going 14-0.”
The coach said he has been extremely impressed with his players. He said the recent heat indices have kept them from practicing as often as they normally would.
“But these guys have been coming out and playing football come game time,” he said.
The ‘Canes are back home Saturday, when they will host the Darlington Warriors. Kick-off is at 7 p.m. at Long Bell Stadium in Hinesville. General admission is $5 and children 12 and under are admitted free. The ‘Canes will be selling raffle tickets at the game and prizes will be awarded during halftime. Winners must be present and have tickets to claim prizes.