Football Recap: Kinston Comes Up Short on the Road Against South Central

Kinston had to hit the road for their first game and it wasn't the result they were hoping for. They fell just short of the South Central Falcons by a score of 21-19 on Friday. The Vikings lost against the Falcons in their previous head to head back in August of 2024, too, but the margin this time around was much closer than the 34-7 score last time.

When it comes to explaining why Kinston lost, don't look at Tyreek Copper. Despite the final result, he picked up 219 receiving yards and one score. Copper was no stranger to the big play, lighting up the secondary with a catch that went for 57 yards. Tyler Jones was another key player, having thrown for 264 yards and two touchdowns.

While Kinston came up short, they sure didn't make it easy for South Central: they limited their QB to completion percentage of just 47.4%. The team can thank Ex'Zavion Croom for the heroic effort on defense: he. Kinston wasn't nearly as limited: they posted one of 38.9%.

Kinston didn't go easy on the quarterback and picked off two passes before the game was over. The picks came courtesy of Jemorris Poole and Croom. Another thorn in South Central's side was Isaiah Newton, who made eight total tackles (4.0 for loss).

Clevon Akande had an outrageously good game for South Central as he rushed for 79 yards and a pair of TDs. What's more, Akande posted two rushing touchdowns, the most he's had since back in September of 2024.

Both squads are looking forward to the support of their home crowds in their upcoming games. Kinston will challenge Wallace-Rose Hill at 7:00 p.m. on Friday. As for South Central, they will take on Farmville Central at 7:00 p.m. on Friday.