It was a proper cat-fight when East Duplin faced off against Jacksonville on Friday. The Panthers took a 35-24 hit to the loss column at the hands of the Cardinals. The defeat continues a trend for the Panthers in their meetings with the Cardinals: they've now lost four in a row.
East Duplin didn't go easy on the quarterback and picked off two passes before the game was over. In fact, those interceptions all came courtesy of defensive juggernaut Zachary Ball. East Duplin received some extra help from Keeshaun McKinney, whose fumble return for a touchdown made for one of the most unforgettable moments.
This one was won in the trenches and the lion's share of the credit has to go to Amari Pearson and Amaree Betton. Pearson rushed for 133 yards and two scores while Betton gained 106 total yards. Pearson's rushing production has been exceptional recently as that marked his third straight game with at least 100 rushing yards.
East Duplin's loss dropped their record down to 3-2. As for Jacksonville, the win keeps them at an undefeated 4-0.
East Duplin and Jacksonville will both get a bit of extra prep time before their next contests. The next time the Panthers see the field they'll take on Southwest Onslow at 7:00 p.m. on the 3rd. As for Jacksonville, their break will end when they face New Bern at 7:00 p.m. on the 3rd.
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