The end of February/start of March signals the best in high school basketball are left fighting for the ultimate crown.  In a 10-day period, the high schools are playing winner take all games and the losers are watching their dreams of state titles disappear.

In the Central Virginia area, several teams qualified for their respective state tournaments looking to be the last team standing.

In VHSL Class 4, Jefferson Forest Cavaliers qualified as the Region 4D runner-up.  The Seminole District squad played valiantly but were not able to overcome Loudoun Valley and finished the season in the state quarterfinals at 18-8.  This team returned to the state tournament for the first time since 2018-2019.

In VHSL Class 2, the Gretna Hawks from the Dogwood District, were phenomenal.  They finished second in the district but maneuvered their way through Region C and were victorious as they won the school’s first ever basketball regional over the Martinsville Bulldogs.  The team was primed for a title run but could not overcome the Graham G-Men.  The historic season ended at 16-10 with a state quarterfinal loss. 

In Class 2, the Liberty High School Minutemen (19-7) enjoyed tremendous success on a season full of achievements.  The team performed admirably behind the leadership of dominant post player, Shania Brown, the ladies of Bedford qualified for the state tournament.  They were competing against the defending state champs in Central Wise High School.  The outcome and season ended with a 72-42 loss in the state quarters but nothing can dampen what is the most successful year in the history of the program. 

The VISSA represents the private schools in the state.  This year, New Covenant, made their way through all comers to battle for a chance to win the school’s first boys’ basketball title.  The Gryphons entered as the number 2 seed in the Division 1 Tournament.  The Gryphons earned a bye and advanced to face the Carlisle Chiefs, the overall number 1 seed.  The game was a classic. As each team played the ultimate game of tug-o-war, neither could pull away from the other.  This was the second matchup of the year between  these two.  Carlisle won earlier in the regular season and New Covenant was ready to avenge the loss.  When it was all said and done, the Gryphons (19-8) emerged the winners by the slightest margin, winning 70-69. The Chiefs (25-13) ended the season in impressive fashion but could not capture the 1st place crown. 

In VHSL Class 3, the Lynchburg Christian Academy Bulldogs are the best of the best.  These ladies were on a mission to finish business that was interrupted on last season.  The Bulldogs had firepower from inside and outside.  The fantastic combo of Avery Mills and Emma Stout had damage the hopes of opponents all year long.  As they pursued the elusive state crown, they needed to overcome Carroll County, the two time defending state champs.  Carroll County dashed the Bulldogs’ hopes in state semis last year.  This time around, LCA turned the tables and eliminated the Cavaliers as they marched into the state semifinals again.  

The march to VCU didn’t stop as they traveled to the corners of the state in southwest VA to battle the Abingdon Falcons.  As was the case all season, the Bulldogs (26-0) came away as the victors (63-50) and stand one step away from the championship podium in Richmond, Va. There magical ride culminated in a state championship, the first for any basketball team in LCA history.

EMSPORTS 2/29/2024

EM-SPORTS.ORG  1/4/24   

LCA keeps on rolling By beating Liberty 69-36 In a girl's basketball game Played at LCA gymnasium. Emmy Stout was the dominant player on the floor tonight with seven block shots and 11 points. Jenna Davis Came off the bench for LCA to score 12 points with Avery Mills

A LU Committed had 18 points.LCA is still undefeated in the district.Shania Brown had a big

night for Liberty with 20 points. Shania Brown scored all the points for the team in the first quarters.

12/19/23 EM-Sports.org    Dunbar played Linkhorn tonight at Heritage High School a Calvin Buck  Christmas tournament 
The game went down to the wire, with Linkhorn coming out victorious. the game was tied four times lead changed six times. AJ Coles was the top score for Linkhorn with 16 points his teammate had F. Givers  5 points. With 13 seconds left in the fourth quarter, Dunbar had the ball and turnover Dunbar player fouled AJ Coles went to the free throw line with two shots and made both of the shots to seal the game 35-31.  Linkhorn will play Sandusky for the championship on Wednesday at Heritage High School at 5:00.

The 2023 football season all comes down to this moment. The endless hours, the blood, sweat and tears are a sign of due paid for the chance to cash in on winning the ultimate prize.

For each team that dares to dream this year’s is their time, only two are left to make it a reality and relish in the joy of winning.  On the other side, there is a team which must face the ultimate “what if” moment and that would be the squad which climbs that proverbial mountain but does not reach the top looking down at all the others who would desperately take their crown at the top.

In Class 3A, the Lynchburg Christian Academy Bulldogs had knocked on the door but had not kicked it open. 

The program had dominated the private school ranks but had yet to place a championship trophy as public school competitor. In 2021, Phoebus High School bested Liberty Christian Academy 22-14 in the final game, the closest the Bulldogs had ever been.

This year has been a showcase of a team who has steamrolled everyone on the schedule with exception of week 1 when they defeated the Salem Spartans 21-14. Since that Friday in August, the Bulldogs have been the hills yes but have not looked back. Their focus forward meant taking care of business which they have done to the tune of 14-0.  The postseason has been a demonstration of their powers elevated as they have outscored their opponents by 174 points while averaging over 53 points in the four games to date.

The Lafayette Rams are no strangers to postseason success or the Liberty University turf.  The 2001 edition of this program won the trophy back in the days of Class AA.  They also won the 2020 title which was altered by the COVID pandemic.  That team completed an undefeated season and claimed their second championship on home turf.  This year’s team has made their way back to the VHSL State Finals and their eight-game winning streak means they have gotten hot at the right time with the goal of adding another title to the legacy of Lafayette. 

What the Bulldogs present in offense, the Rams will look to counter with their hard(headed) hitting defense.  The Rams have shut teams down to the tune of 14 total points (3.5 points per game) in the playoffs including two shutouts.

In this matchup, something has to give as the immoveable will face the unstoppable or the classic great offense versus great defense. 

It was the Lafayette defense that struck.  CB Elijah Matthews was opportunistic intercepting a pass on the first drive of the game.  The turnover set the Rams up with great field position at the Bulldogs’ 40-yard line.  The LCA defense didn’t let the Rams take advantage for on the next play, a fumble was created and recovers by LCA.  With new life the Bulldogs chewed up some clock and yardage.  The drive ended like so many with All-American Gideon Davidson scampering in for a five-yard touchdown run.  The TD and PAT made it 7-0. 

Both teams continued the battle into the second quarter where dual threat Davidson struck again.  His interception at the 10-yard line thwarted a promising drive by the Rams.  He then proceeded showcase his tremendous speed and vision.  He broke through the right side of the line and in a foot race, Davidson wins.  He went 90 yards untouched with Ram defenders helplessly looking for an extra gear they didn’t have.  The quick, big play strike brought the overwhelming home crowd out of their seats.  The TD made the score 14-0 and a route looked to be on.

Lafayette attempted to regroup and with some timely runs and ball control, they drive deep into LCA territory.  If once is good, twice is better and Davidson, the defensive back, struck again. With grace and athleticism, Davidson picked off an errant pass from the Lafayette QB as they approached the endzone.  Davidson had stamped his fingerprints all over this game and when he carried another handoff around the edge for a 26-yard touchdown, the Bulldogs raced out to a 21-0 halftime lead.

The Rams were down but certainly not out.  The team raced out of halftime and believed they had a chance.  The opening kickoff in the second half went to the Rams and about four minutes later they celebrated a touchdown.  RB Demarcus Lawrence took the handoff and raced into the endzone from 11 yards out.  The kick was good, and the new score was 21-7.  The teams traded possessions for the remainder of the quarter.  The fourth quarter began as the third with the Rams breaking tackles and moving the chains. This drive had another TD by James Lawrence from two yards away.  Another kick after point was good making the score 21-14.   

LCA was reeling and needed a boost because Lafayette had momentum.  The Bulldogs turned to the power rink in g attack and started to wear the Rams down and whittle clock.  With under six minutes left, the trick play came out when a reverse pass was caught by WR Dalton Nesselrotte who raced to the house on the receiving end of a 44-yard throw.  The kick for one more point gave the Bulldogs a double-digit lead and put the game away at 28-14.

Lafayette gave it one more aggressive drive but came up short on downs when they failed to score from inside the redzone at the Bulldogs’ three-yard line. The stop on defense gave LCA the ball to celebrate with a kneel down and raise their hands in jubilation as the completed a 15-0 season and became the first ever private school to win the public school VHSL football championship. 

The Rams have no reason to hang their heads as they finished at 12-3 on the season overcoming many skeptics and advancing farther than many gave the credit to do.

EMSPORTS.org 12/9/2023

The William Byrd Terriers, fresh of winning their first ever regional title in football, were preparing for a great challenge.  They LCA Bulldogs were little the biggest and baddest dogs on the block and to get to the VHSL Class 3 State Finals, the Terriers needed a bigger bite than bark.

The Bulldogs had been destroying the competition and now they were literally one step from claiming the ultimate prize.  The LCA team had been #1 for all year in Class 3 and had not left the city of Lynchburg in over a month, as they hosted all of their playoff games up to this point.  A victory placed them in LU's Williams Stadium, less than 1/2 mile from their own Bulldog Stadium. 

The Bulldogs started fast as they had done last week and it was too much for William Byrd to
handle.  The sensational running of Gideon Davidson and the outstanding defense made life miserable for the visiting team from Vinton.  

Davidson went to the house in the first LCA possession from 60 yards on the ground.  He was just getting started. After a James Dale two-yard plunge for a TD, Davison scored in the next possession with a one-yard dive.  He thenadded a two-point conversion which made the score 21-0 in the first quarter.  

William Byrd was stunned and unprepared for the lightning attacks.  The LCA defense got some action and with opportunity comes results. A fumble by William Byrd on the ensuing kickoff was recovered by Weston Woodard in the endzone. The turnover for a TD extended the lead to 28-0 in the first quarter.  

As the second quarter progressed, the game seemed to slow down until Davison struck again.  With under five minutes before half, the Clemson commit, made another house call. This time, he scampered 62 yards and the score grew to 35-0.  The touchdown was number three in the first half for Davidson.

William Byrd was down but not out as they showed life when Witcher Berry brought the visitors to their feet with an electrifying 89-yard touchdown. It a was a jolt in the arm for the Terriers and eliminated any plans of a shutout by LCA. 

The game would not get any better for Byrd who ran into a rolling bulldozer in the Bulldogs.  LCA finished business by shutting out their foes in the second half and tabling in two more touchdowns.  The final score of 49-6 indicated the Bulldogs could celebrate one more time and prepare for the final test on Championship Saturday next week at Liberty University.

EMSPORTS.org 12/2/2023

EC Glass girls beat William Campbell 51-30 at Glass Tuesday night. Destiny Word was the top score for Glass with 17 points and Jordan Matthews with 8 points. 

Glass used a half-court press causing problems for Williams Campbell to get the ball down the floor.  It led to William Campbell having 11 turnovers.

 11/26/23 EM-SPORTS.ORG

Lynchburg Christian Academy has been a force in the VHSL football playoffs for several years. In their pursuit for the elusive championship, the Bulldogs have left many fallen foes in their path. The Turner Ashby Knights were ready to spoil the Bulldogs’ perfect season in the Region C, Class 3 Final. The Knights were no slouch, boasting an 11-1 record with the loss by one point to
rival Spotswood.

This game would be a chance for the winner to get into the state Final Four and continue the pursuit of state title. For LCA, it is their fourth straight regional final and most importantly the chance to extend the season for their seniors. LCA had been close to winning it all but had fallen short each time. This game was being played in the new built, high school only Bulldog stadium so this was really personal.

LCA struck first as Gideon Davidson, the electrifying running back, committed to Clemson, touched paydirt first. His 41-yard burst out the home team up 7-0 on the game’s initial deuce. The Knights would not be outdone as they responded with a scoring drive right back. Beau Baylor punched in the one-yard plunge and it was tied at 7.

Then Davidson made it a personal showcase of why he is the best player in the area and one of the best in Virginia. 

On the next five consecutive drives, the result was the same. A LCA touchdown compliments of Davidson. In those five possessions, the Bulldogs had scored 33 consecutive points.

Turner Ashby finally stopped the madness after another Baylor TD from 17 yards away. It was too little too late. LCA closed the scoring on 22 points uncontested and put the final touchdown on the board through the defense. James Deyo went scoop and score from 60 yards to the house.

The final score of 63-14 was indicative of the dominance and strength of the Bulldogs.

LCA controlled the clock and the stats. They gained 505 total yards with 454 on the ground. The leader was Davison who totes the rock 16 times for 357 yards and the six scores. Jen Moon was effective at QB running for 20 yards and passing for 51 with an interception.

Beau Baylor rushed for 171 yards for Turner Ashby to carry the ground attack and two touchdowns while TA quarterback Micah Shank completed 11 of 23 passes for 126 yards, no touchdowns and two interceptions.

LCA (12-0) earns another trip into the Class 3 state tournament and will travel to William Byrd for the semi final clash.

Turner Ashby (11-2) wraps up an highly successful season but must wait another year to grab hold of the trophy that so many teams make a goal every offseason.

EMSPORTS.org 11/24/2023

The weather has changed but their is still a little heat outside.  In gyms across the viewing area of Central Virginia, the heat is on as teams inch closer to the ultimate prize of a state championship.  

The teams that compose the Seminole and Dogwood districts have battled non-stop for over two months for a chance to take in some of the best in the state.

The same can be said for some other local private powerhouse programs including Temple Christian, Timberlake Christian, New Covenant and VES.

The preparation and battles have sharpened the skills of these fantastic volleyball players and raised the intensity of their competitive spirits as they entered regional play.  

The reality is the next match may be your last match if you are not able to overcome the challengers on the other side of the net. 

Without the presence of district tournaments,  teams used their final regular season games to fine tune their skills and best prepare for regional competition.

In the case of several teams, the hard work paid off as three area teams qualified for states in reaching the regional finals and two schools win their respective independent pre-state tournaments.

In public school competition, Altavista and Appomattox of the Dogwood District and Rustburg from the Seminole reached their respective regional title games.  Altavista defeated for Class 1, Appomattox bested James River in Class 2 and Rustburg fell just short in Class 3.

New Covenant and Timberlake did their championship winning in the private school ranks and both advanced to the statewide Virginia Independent Schools Athletic Association’s Final Four (semi-finals).  The Gryphons and the Tornadoes dominated play throughout the season and were victorious in their respective regional play leading up to the VISAA state tournament.  #2-seeded Timberlake bowed out at home while New Covenant saw their season come to an end at the hands of the #1-seeded Stonebridge. 

The state tournament means the best of the best have survived and advances.  In the case of these five teams, they were nothing less than one of the top 8 teams in the entire state and they were worthy of that distinction.  Another successful volleyball season has conclude and congrats to all the teams who made viewing their contests a great pleasure to the fans and schools which they represented.

Appomattox took the court in their first ever state championship match as they look for their crown.  They faced the Bruton Panthers who traveled from Williamsburg looking to being home the trophy. This was also Bruton’s first ever championship battle. 

A back and forth 1st set saw the Raiders take a late lead only to have Bruton score six of the last seven points to take set 1, 25-22.

The second set was nearly a repeat of the first as Appomattox took an early advantage and maintained the lead until Bruton charges ahead.  In this stanza,  Bruton won five of the last seven points to grab a 25-22 lead and a commanding 2-0 set lead.

It takes will, skill and some bounces to go your way when you are staring defeat and an end of the season head-on.  Appomattox knew the first to three sets was the winner and they had no plans to let Bruton get their first.  

The third set was a fast start again for Appomattox but this time they didn’t waste the lead.

A dominant 16-8 lead turned into a 25-18 lead and the fourth set was another spectacular repeat performance as Appomattox captured the set at 25-16.  The final set would be winner take it all.  

In the fifth set, the teams were trading great plays, great defense and energy was palpable. One team was willing to lay it all on the line to be the first volleyball champion ever at their respective school.  

Appomattox was able to grab a three point margin at 7-4 and kept the advantage but not without one more salvo from the Panthers.  At 13-12, Bruton had a chance to tie but were unable to convert as Appomattox scored to take a 14-13 advantage with a chance to serve out.

Serving for the match, Appomattox put the ball in play prepared to finish the match.  It only took a few seconds because the Bruton setter was whistled for an illegal touch. The miscue was the the last touch of the game.  As the final whistle blew, the Raiders could celebrate with a final set at 15-13, claiming the win.  The victory for Appomattox was special and nearly unbelievable as the team locked up the first ever volleyball title in their school’s history.

Altavista had made the long trip to Rapphannock High School to earn their state title appearance.  After besting the Raiders in four sets, the Colonels had a date with the Auburn Eagles. Altavista had been here before but a decade had past since their last Class 1 Finals’ appearance. 

Auburn finished as runner-ups in Class 1, Region C.  They avenged the loss by overcoming Giles in the state semifinals.  Auburn’s experience was a strength as they were competing in their fifth straight final.  They were the winners of the last four Class 1 championships.  A win would secure the eighth title in the school’s history.   

These two combatant have a rich history in the record books in VHSL as perennial contenders for championships.

The Lady Colonels came out attacking as  they started early but could never maintain the momentum. Auburn used timely hitting and an active defensive to gain the advantage in the first row winning 25-16.  The Eagles wasted no time jumping in their opponents in the second half and ran away with a definitive 25-11 win.  As Altavista stared a possible sweep in the face, they played their best.  A quick lead by Altavista was met by Auburn with resistance.  Auburn eventually tied the set up at 23 but Altavista was resilient and pulled off the set with a 25-23 win.

The energy and momentum were switching sides however it was not enough to stop Auburn from gaining the long awaited championship.  Altavista was game but could not match the offense of Auburn as their all around play sealed the deal.  The final set was a 25-12 decision in favor of Auburn and the three sets to one championship victory closed another successful season at the culmination of the 2023 VHSL state tournament.

EMSPORTS.org 11/18/2023

if you are a resident of Lynchburg, Virginia or close enough to the Hill City, you know when the two oldest high schools in the city lock up on the gridiron.  The annual Jug Bowl has taken place anytime between August through November.  The 2023 edition was scheduled for the last Friday in October and it felt more like a late summer evening, not like the crisp cool Fridays football fans usually enjoy in October.  

This year's matchup had an additional special meaning.  The current EC Glass Hilltoppers had never tasted victory against the Heritage Pioneers and they were not looking to be on the wrong side of history.  Last year, Heritage won in a 12-0 hard fought victory.  The win brought the all time record to 31-29-2 in favor of EC Glass.

The unseasonably warm weather meant very little to the players.  There focus was on the counterpart across the field, the other sideline and effectively the difference between winning and losing.

Both teams were eyeing postseason berths.  EC Glass Hilltoppers were pretty comfortable in the Division 4, Region D playoff chase.  They were standing at 5-3 and could lock up a definite spot in the eight team playoff format.  The Heritage Pioneers had a little more work to do.  The Pioneers were battling in the competitve Division 3, Region C that included three other Seminole teams, all who were looking to grab a seat at the playoff table as well.  The struggle to stay above average for this season was real as they entered the game at 5-3 and couldn't risk any more losses. 

This game was a battle of wills and defenses.  EC Glass struck first in the scoring column.  The Hilltoppers took a 7-0 lead in the first quarter and made it stand until Heritage answered back with their own touchdown.  The Pioneers failed to tie the game before halftime and Glass was leading by the slimmest of margins, 7-6 at halftime.

The defenses stoned and turned away nearly every offensive charge as both teams found points at a premium.  Glass was able to find enough holes to make it into Pioneer territory and execute well on a field goal to make it a 10-6 contest.  The Pioneers were poised to take the ball and take the lead.  A really good mix of run and pass generated new life in the Pioneers and their fans made City Stadium shake.  The problem was the Glass defense did not listen and when the pressure got too much for the Pioneers, the Hilltoppers took advantage.  A poor decision led to a poor pass from Heritage and the happy recipient was Clark, a Glass defender who had nothing but time and grass in front of him as he took the interception 76 yards to the house and effectively ended the Jug Bowl contest with a little over 2 minutes left in the third quarter.

Heritage could not respond and then they ran out of chances when they failed to convert a fourth down with over two minutes remaining in the fourth quarter.

EC Glass ran out the clock and then spilled on to the field.  The HIlltoppers did their damage scoring just enough, getting contributions from all phases of the team as well as points from both offense and defense.  The Pioneers gave all they could but their offense could not keep up and it eventually led to the defeat.

With the loss, Heritage will take on the Brookville Bees in a hope to secure what may be the last spot in the playoffs.  The Hilltoppers will gladly move into the last week of the regular season looking to take on the upstart Rustburg Red Devils who have been the surprise of the district this season.

EMSPORTS.org 10/27/2023

E.C.Glass met undefeated L.C.A. for time, Glass kickoff to L.C.A. Jeb Moon received the ball

he ran back for 85 yards for a touchdown.  LCA missed the field goal, Glass fumbled the ball LCA recoveryJeb Moon ran in on the 6-yard line for a touchdown with 8 minutes to go in the second quarter Jamar Smith with a touchdown reception pass from Callaway. LCA dominated the game all night. EM-SPORTS.ORG  10/20/23

This year's version of the Black and Blue Classic is a football game that needs no explanation.  The title alone lets you know this game is not for the faint of heart nor anyone avoiding a challenge.

The title also designates the combatants as EC Glass versus Jefferson Forrest.  The Hilltoppers hosted their Seminole foe at City Stadium looking for a chance to stay undefeated in the district.

More importantly, the undefeated Cavaliers were enjoying the most success they had seen in over ten years.  The game was also a chance for both teams to improve their standing in the Region 4D playoffs.

The Hilltoppers were looking to extend the four game win streak in this series while the Forest natives wanted to set up a potential winner take all showdown with LCA at season’s end.

This game was all about the black jerseys from JF and making the Glass faithful blue.

JF showed grit, a stifling defense and bruising offensive running attack that left the Hilltoppers frustrated and disappointed.

On defense, JF held the potent Glass offense to a total of 60 yards (37 rushing, 23 passing).  This was aided by four turnovers (3 interceptions, 1 fumble) and only three first downs for the game.

On offense, the methodical, grinding offense from the Cavaliers made life uncomfortable for the boys in blue.  The offense had only one completed pass for two yards but 211 yards on the ground.  

The offense was led by QB Josiah Bell who scored two touchdowns with 90 yards rushing. RB Camerohn Parker was effective with 60 yards and one touchdown.  

JF took a 7-0 lead into the half and just poured it in with 16 more points finishing in the Hilltoppers with a McClendon field goal of 37 yards in the fourth quarter.

The win gives JF a 7-0 (4-0 Seminole) record and solidifies their number one position in Region 4D. The Hilltoppers drop to 5-2 in the schedule with a 3-1 Seminole record.

EMSPORTS 10/14/2023

In Central Virginia, the spring season means that school is close to ending but the sports calendar is heating up.  Many local teams took to their respective fields of dreams hoping to be the last team standing. Each team starts to season with the goal of attaining a state title and capping off their competitive pursuits with the ultimate prize.

BASEBALL

 LCA Bulldogs were the defending champions of Class 3A.  They had won 30 straight games and had conquered all obstacles and challenges in their way.  The team was loaded with talent, pitching and great coaching.  They were the odds on favorite to repeat and claim back to back state championships.  However, things do no always go your way.

The Bulldogs were preparing to face a formidable opponent in the New Kent Trojans were the champions of the Region A and were winners of four straight.  They had collected 19 wins and only 5 losses.  They were considered the #2 ranked team in Class 3 and would be the toughest test for LCA.

The pitching and defense was not the story but the offenses came to play.  The hitters put the ball in play and it was LCA that struggled in the field.  The offenses couldn't be stopped and when the dust settled the Trojans outlasted the Bulldogs by a score of 12-8.  As much as New Kent earned it, LCA was responsible for six errors, a season high and each one was detrimental.  

The 23-0 start went up in a hurry as the season came to a sudden thud for LCA.  They should still be extremely proud of their season and also look forward to getting back into the VHSL Finals next year looking to reclaim their title from 2022.

The Amherst Lancers were excited to be at home. They had won the 4D Region over Louisa County and earned the right to host James Wood Colonels in the VHSL State Quarterfinal.

JW was ranked #6 in the state and were not intimidated by the number 2 ranked Lancers. Each team scored a run apiece in the 1st inning.

Dalton Wentz started in the circle for Amherst and produced the Lancers’ run with a solo homer.

Both teams were gridlocked as the pitchers controlled the game. The teams struggled to get runners on and runs were at a premium. James Wood broke through as they put together a couple of hits that resulted in taking the lead at 2-1 in top of sixth with two outs.

The Lancers were looking to grab back the momentum and did so with a little help. The Lancers were looking at two outs when they put together a rally. The combination of an infield hit, a couple of walks and an error produced the tying run with potential go-ahead run thrown out at the plate.

James Wood responded with a run in their half of the seventh. Another two-out rally, as the JW Tigers got a single and the benefit of a Lancer throwing error to get to third base. After Wentz was replaced by Nick Dawson, the first pitch he threw resulted in an infield single that scored Wood’s third run.

The Lancers looked to do it one more time. They got a lead off single them after two strikeouts the bases were loaded on purpose with two intentional walks. This left cleanup hotter David Travis with a chance to tie or send the Lancers home in jubilation.

The drama unfolded with the pitcher and batter dueling. The stadium was on edge and with one pitch the outcome would be determined.  James Wood had just enough as the pitcher struck out Travis on a fastball, deflating the home team and sending last year’s VHSL 4D state runner-up into the semifinal round and keep their season alive.  Amherst can be proud that they got this close and also celebrate Region 4A Coach and Player of the Year in Coach Jon Apperson and C/P Christian Harris.

Softball

Appomattox Lady Raiders and Rustburg Lady Red Devils both advanced into state quarterfinals with great play all season.

Rustburg was the VHSL 3C regional champ and were looking for their first state title since 2021. They faced a stout opponent in the Northside Vikings who showed no mercy in blanking the Lady Red Devils by a score of 11-0 ending another successful campaign in Rustburg.

Appomattox was looking for a three-peat to continue their dynasty in the Class 2 ranks. The team has lost only one game all season. They lost a heartbreaker in 14 innings at Buchanan to James River.

They went on the road for the state quarterfinal round. The Raiders were unable to re-establish their offense and lost another one run heartbreaker on the road at Tazewell High. Two losses in less than a week spelled the end for the Lady Raiders who saw their season end outside the state finals for the first time in three seasons.

Soccer

Appomattox had an undefeated season on the line and looking to get back to the state Final Four in Class 2. The second ranked team in the state looked the part and welcomed Central Wise Warriors into Bragg Stadium. The Lady Raiders were aggressive and energized but when the final whistle blew, the visitors pulled out a 2-0 win and moved to the state Final Four.

Altavista Lady Colonels saw there season end at the hands of the Northampton YellowJackets as they made a run into the state tournament in Class 1.

Jefferson Forest Boys' Soccer was known to be an annual contender for the soccer title.  JF beat Tuscarora in a matchup between last year’s 4A state finalists. The Cavaliers hosted the visitors and it was tight the entire match. Tuscorora played like a champ turning the Cavs away and striking first to take a 1-0 lead. JF played with the memory of last year’s final and it motivated them to erase that sting. JF scored twice in the second half with the winning goal in the 61st minute to claim victory. The win lifts Jefferson Forest into a second consecutive Final Four hoping to capture that elusive state title crown.

The Cavaliers used the momentum of the home victory and carried it on the road in the state semifinals.  They would be jus on win away from that opportunity to get the elusive crown they lost to Tuscarora in last year's epic final. 

The team on the opposite bench, the Jamestown Eagles were looking for the same prize.  The losers of the Region A final were undeterred as they advanced with a 5-0 win over Courtland in the state quarters and they struck early in the matchup with the Cavaliers.  The Eagles got the opening kickoff and didn't waste it.  They found a seam in the Cavaliers' defense who looked to have a miscommunication and it was all downhill from there.  The Cavaliers did not recover and soon enough the Eagles struck again with a second goal with less than five minutes into the match.

The Cavaliers scrambled and clawed and got close but none of their efforts were rewarded.  The game was a standstill for over 75 minutes with JF getting the better of play but no goals to show and thus they walked off the pitch in a 2-0 defeat.  They were game and aggressive however they will have to use this as fuel to be ready to make another run next year.

Lacrosse

The EC Glass Hilltoppers were dominant all year and each challenge got more difficult as they entered the state semifinal. The team on the other side was no ordinary team. The Atlee Raiders were the best in the state and they laid waste anyone on their path. With a berth for a state championship on the line, these two teams went all out.

The Raiders were not ready give up the title. The Hilltoppers unfortunately were the next team looking to wipe out the Raiders. It was not meant to be the Hilltoppers’ day. Atlee showed their prominence and won going away at 15-2. They extended their winning streak to 28 and look to end another season as the state’s Class 4 Lacrosse Champion.

EMSPORTS 6/9/2023

LCA defeated Turner Ashby 53-41 The game was tied four times at the end of the third quarter the score was 33 to 33. The Bulldog went up by 12 points In the first half but Ashby fought back
To cut the lead to 5 Points 53-41 In the fourth quarter with 5 minutes to go.  the game was tied 33 - 33 in the third quarter Avery Mills Hit two three-pointers Putting LCA up 39 to 33 Start of the fourth quarter. Maisy MillerA transfer from Florida had 22 points for LCA For the win.
 Raevin Washington a 6’8 Junior for Ashby had 18 points loss.  Avery Mills was the top
 score for LCA with 32 points. The next game for LCA is Spotswood for the Championship game for Region 3 Playoffs Saturday at LCA 
EM-Sports 2/23/23

2/2/23  EM-SPORTS.ORG  

Two arrival teams met tonight at Heritage in Lynchburg VA. Heritage scored the first six points to

Jefferson Forest has two points. they tied the game five times both teams were fast-breaking in

the first half. Halftime score Jefferson Forest 36  Heritage 35. start the second half of the game

Jefferson Forest took control of the game by slowing down the offense to give the ball to Kelka Alwal to score 22 points to win. Kelka hit four jump shot in a row.

  Pharrell Washington keeps Heritage in-game with his 25 points.

Heritage Pioneers and Phoebus Phantoms were destined to see each other again.  It was the second matchup in a state championship title game since 2018 when the Pioneers won 24-20 at Williams Stadium on the campus of Liberty University.

This matchup was touted as revenge or pay back by the Phantoms and they entered the game as a juggernaut.  This Phoebus squad entered the game as the current VHSL 3A 

Champs and wanted to keep the title.

Heritage had the luxury of playing just a few miles from their school and had not left Lynchburg during this playoff tournament.  They were coming off a dominating 43-0 over Christiansburg and looked to claim their second crown on five years.

Heritage took the opening kickoff and made some noise.  The Pioneer drove into the redzone.  The Phoebus defense was knocked around but held on 4th and goal from the three-yard line as Jaciere “Hov”Bateman’s pass fell incomplete and the Phantoms’ defense was able to prevent any scoring with 7:47 left in the clock.  The Phantoms’ offense was playing without their starting QB Nolan James injured in last week’s play.  The Heritage defense was ready and caused a three-n-out to force a short punt to give the Pioneers’ offense great field position in Phoebus territory.  

Heritage was able to move the ball again and then failed on another fourth down attempt. 

WR Jordan Bass caught a beautiful pass from QB Jayden Earley and did the rest in the 83-yard catch and run.  The extra point was good and Phoebus took the early lead, 7-0, with 3:12 left in the clock in the first quarter.   

Following the touchdown,  Heritage tried to jump start the offense but once again the Phantom’s defense was too much and Heritage punted for the first time of the game.  The punt from Bateman pinned the Phantoms on their own 12-yard line.  

The Phantoms knew if one time is good then two times is better.  The Phantoms hooked up the Early to Bass connection for another big time TD to break the Pioneers’ spirit.  This time the play covered 75 yards and another PAT made the score 14-0 with a second left in the first quarter. 

The next time Phoebus got the ball was because their suffocating defense made Heritage punt again.  Phoebus took their first possession of the second quarter and continued the scoring streak.  With 10:02 left in the clock, TyReon Taylor took the handoff from the six-yard line and punched in the third TD for the Phantoms.  

The next Phantoms' touchdown was an 18-yard pass from Earley to Zayvion Rogers following a drive starting at the Phoebus 45-yd line.  The extra point kick was missed and the score stayed 27-0 with five minutes before halftime.  The Pioneers attempted to get the offense started but on the first snap after the kickoff a fumble from the offense gave Phoebus another possession when Rogers fell on the fumble at the 22-yard line.  It was just another play before Taylor found paydirt on a 22-yard carry untouched for his second score of the game.  The score was 34-0 following the extra point kick.

Heritage struggled on offense and even with good field position they only got a few yards at a time and unable to collect first downs against this dominant defense of Phoebus.  The ball was punted back to Phoebus with 74 seconds left attempting to add more points to the scoreboard. 

Heritage found life with an interception.  The first big play from Heritage was Tayvion Clark intercepting the Easley pass at the Phoebus 17-yard line.  The Pioneers were sniffing the redzone and looking to put their mark on the scoreboard. 

Phantoms took the opening kickoff of the second half but Heritage was not ready to quit.  The Pioneers forced a turnover and created some momentum as they looked to score and flip the field position.  The Pioneers took the ball into the redzone and were breathing in the goal line. Jaciere Bateman was able to push the ball across the endzone and Markus Gafford added the extra point.  The new score was 34-7, Phoebus.

The Pioneers defense stood up again with the momentum and the offense moved ahead back into Phantoms’ territory.  The Pioneers had to play with desperation and on fourth down just inside the the 30-TD line, the Pioneers pass was completed but to the wrong team. Five star recruit, Jordan Bass, picked the ball off and cruised into the endzone from 84 yards away.  The two-way athlete undercut the Heritage receiver and took the errant pass for a pick six. 41-7 was the new score in the third quarter with a little over four minutes left. 

As the game continued into the fourth quarter, Phoebus took possession and they continued to pad stats and add points.  The running attack added another touchdown when from 12 yards away, scores and the subsequent extra point made it 48-7 with 6:45 left in the game.  

The Pioneers were attempting to score another to respond but a Bateman pass was tipped then intercepted again causing the Pioneers defense to head back to the field.  

The Phantoms chose to take the ball and ended the game with consecutive kneel downs to secure back-to-back championships with a 48-7 victory.  The Phantoms end the season at 15-0 and will move up to Class 4A next year.  The Pioneers should not be ashamed as they finished at 12-3 on the season.

The Player of the game was Jordan Bass, a 5-star recruit of the Pittsburgh Panthers.  He was hard to stop but easy to spot.  The WR/DB scored twice on offense and also had interception for a TD.

EMSPORTS 12/10/2022

Altavista came from behind to beat Jefferson Forest 60-52 at Forest. The Colonels played a

pressing defense all 4 quarters of the game. The game was tied 7 times.

The Colonels got going in the second quarter with Ryan Hart hitting two 3-points to close the gap by 2 points, Forest 29- Altavista 27.  At the start of the fourth quarter, the Colonels put pressure on the ball, creating problems for Forest trying to get the ball down the floor.

Ryan Hart's shooting helped to turn the game around in favor of Altavista for the win.

The top scorer for Colonels was Christian Garvin with 17 points.  Jefferson Forest top scorer was  Kelka Alwal who had 5 points including 4 highlight dunks.           

EM-SPORTS  12/08/22

The Heritage Pioneers were looking for history.  The Pioneers were riding high after the momentous defeat of arch rival LCA and now had a chance to get back to the VHSL Class 3 Title game with a victory over the visiting Christiansburg Blue Demons.  They had not been to a title game since 2018.

These Blue Demons were also riding high and finally got over the hump by beating #1 seed the Lord Botetourt Cavaliers, a team that had ended their playoff hopes several years in a row.  Christiansburg is only a few years removed from an 0-10 season (2017) but things have changed for the better as they were looking for a chance at a state title.

The game began with Heritage on offense after a three-and-out, the Pioneers punted.  The ball was misplayed by the return man from Christiansburg that was recovered by Heritage.  Heritage wasted no time when QB Hov Bateman connected with Tavion Clark on a beautiful 53-yard pass for the first score of the game.  The point after attempt by Marcus Gafford was good and Heritage led 7-0 with 10:18 in the first quarter. 

Markus White ran a post pattern and Bateman’s pass was on the money.  White used his jets to coast into the endzone with an 84-yard reception and the big plays were all in the Orange and Blue.  The second touchdown at 4:02 in the first quarter gave the home team a 14-0 lead.

The Pioneers were stopped after the first possession but couldn’t do no wrong with three straight scores in the following three possessions.  Another touchdown on a 1-yard run from Bateman followed a successful mix of runs and passes.  The score pushed the lead to 21-0 with 7:33 left in the second quarter.

The Pioneers drove back into the Blue Demons’ and found the endzone again with another touchdown pass as Bateman to Emery Kelso went for 11 yards at the 3:55 mark.  The extra point bounced off the upright and fell back to the endzone.  The Pioneers led 27-0. 

The Pioneers defense turned back Christiansburg again and made one last drive before halftime.  The Pioneers drove successfully into the Blue Demons’ redzone again late and were able to kick a 22-yard field goal by Gafford to take a commanding 30-0 lead into the as time ran out on the half.

The Blue Demons were determined to start the second half with a plan to score.  Christiansburg gained momentum and yardage using their powerful single wing offense to drive into the Heritage redzone.  As they made positive advancement towards the endzone, they milked the clock but could not score.  Heritage forced a turnover on downs and kept the Blue Demons off the scoreboard. The Pioneers got the ball back with under six minutes left and started a methodically drive ending in another touchdown at the 11:55 mark in the fourth quarter.  The kick was missed after the five yard run by Rajan Booker-Felder. The score was 36-0 for the Pioneers. Heritage received another gift when they recovered the ensuing kickoff at the eight yard line of the Blue Demons.  The golden opportunity allowed the Pioneers to take an insurmountable lead when Booker-Felder scored his second consecutive rushing touchdown.  The next PAT by Chase Dickle was good and the Pioneers were rolling at 43-0 with over eight minutes left in the game. 

Heritage scored on six consecutive possessions between the first quarter until the end of the game.  The last possession resulted in running out the clock and Heritage preserved the shutout by a score of 43-0.

EMSPORTS 12/03/2022

The EC Glass Hilltoppers were overjoyed with the big victory over the Salem Spartans.  They were back in City Stadium at home with a chance to get back to the state title game for the first time since 1996.  

Kettle Run High School was fairly new to the scene in VHSL Class 4 only since 2015.  They were not in existence the last time the Hilltoppers competed for a state title.  However, the 13-0 Cougars are not intimidated by the history of Glass and boast an offense scoring almost 37 points a game in the playoffs.  

The game started with defenses in control.  The Cougars stopped Glass on the opening possession and Glass returned the favor with an interception by Michael Osei III.  The Hilltoppers did not get much from the possession as they went three and out in offense.  The Glass offense was stuck in neutral or sometimes backwards.  The Cougars found success pinning the Hilltoppers into long fields and few yards.  The cause Glass to punt on all six of their first half possessions. 

The Cougars offense was much more productive than their counterparts.  The champions of Region 4C was able to crack open the stingy Glass defense and produce two touchdowns to take a 14-0 lead into the half.  Both TDs were courtesy of passing from QB Huntley.  His precision and accuracy threaded the beautiful touchdown passes as the EC Glass defense could not keep up.  Both scores took place in the second quarter after a scoreless first 12 minutes.  

The Cougars capitalized again on mistakes by Glass.  First, the opening kickoff went out of bounds producing great field position and then Kettle Run marched back into the endzone for a 20-0 score.  Another EC Glass penalty gave Kettle Run a shorter kickoff starting point which they chose an onside kick and recovered at the Glass 35-yard line.  The EC Glass defense was ready and able and turned the Cougars away.  The momentum was carried over as QB George White connected with WR Sam Tracey and finally the Hilltoppers could cheer with the long TD pass.  A missed PAT kept the score at 20-6 with 4:35 on the game clock in the third quarter.

As Glass looked to mount a comeback, they were turned away after an interception by White in the endzone with a little over 1 min in the third quarter.  The mistake allowed Kettle Run to gain possession and they scored 10 consecutive points to put the game basically out of reach.

The Glass faithful were still encouraging the Big Blue and another White pass to Tracey became another touchdown.  This time the duo connect for a 40 yard house call and after a 2pt conversion, Glass cut the lead to 30-14 with 3:18 left in regulation. 

In the end, Kettle Run will continue their undefeated season with a date in the VHSL Class 4 title game versus Dinwiddie, the 2021 state runner-up.  

EMSPORTS 12/03/2022

The EC Glass Hilltoppers have waited for this moment for a long time.  The Hilltoppers, had not been to the state tournament in 27 seasons and now they would have destiny and history in front of them as they prepared to knock off another 7-time state champion, the Salem Spartans, who always seem to be the team battling for the crown.  

In the Region 4D championship, the Hilltoppers hold home field advantage at historic City Stadium, the site of many great gridiron contests. EC Glass comes in of two high scoring performances, averaging nearly 48 points in the playoffs.  The offense is led by QB George White.  The Hilltoppers’ signal-caller has set records at his school and looks to get Glass back into the state tournament.  He will be joined by the outstanding talents of RB Michael Thomas and WR Vari Gilbert. This is a rematch of the 2019 regional championship won by Salem.  This is the third trip for Glass to this game in five years. 

Salem may have started slow this year but their youth and talent have come together at the right time.  This program is not new to winning but will be a slight underdog as they 

are on the road for the second consecutive week.  The Spartans tossed a shutout in the first week of playoffs then in a barnburner, defeated the #1 seeded, Louisa Lions, 54-37, in the Lions’ den.  They are averaging 48 points in the playoffs so this game could see fireworks from start to finish.

The game was an old-fashioned defense struggle as the offenses tried but could not prevail against the forces of the defense.  The Hilltoppers were finally able to break through with the offense halfway into the second quarter. The running game found a crease and powered in from the five-yard line to take a 6-0 lead after the missed PAT.  The Spartans attempted to answer however the Big Blue Wave from EC Glass held their form to give the offense another possession before the end of the quarter.  With 42 seconds left before halftime, the Midtown Boys scored again and took a 14-0 lead after the 2pt conversion.

As the third quarter took place, the Spartans understood they had to make a statement.  They did with a scoring drive on their first possession of the second half.  By cutting the score in half, 14-7, Salem grabbed some much needed momentum and looked to shut the Hilltoppers down.

EC Glass did not flinch and they responded when White found his target for a 46-yard strike to put the lead back up to 14 at 21-7 with a little over 5 and a half minutes remaining in the quarter.

As the game moved into the fourth quarter, the Hilltoppers were stopping the Salem offense, the Spartans needed a break.  They got it when a Salem blocked the EC Glass punt and returned it for a momentum changing TD.  The first turnover was huge because the Spartans made it count.  The quick touchdown gave the Spartans six more points and made the score 21-13.  

The back and forth continued when EC Glass struck again with another TD pass from White.  This time it was a 59-yard connection and made the score 28-13.  With the clock moving, the Spartans continued to battle and they scored again with under six minutes left.  They scored again on a 74-yd TD gallop and converted a two-point conversion to close the score to 28-21 and all they needed was a stop.

EC Glass knew how Salem was historic for winning close games and making comebacks.  The Hilltoppers took their time and made key play after key play while burning the clock.  The biggest play was converting a fourth-and-1 inside the redzone.  This foreshadowed the inevitable as Glass punched in a final touchdown with about 14 seconds left to seal the deal and claim the Region 4D crown.  They head into the Class 4 state semifinals as the host team to face Kettle Run High School.  Salem concludes another exciting and successful year at 10-3.

Stars:  QB George White with 2 TD passes. 

            RB Mike Thomas, 134 yards rushing, 1 TD

            WR Vari Gilbert, nearly 200 yards of total offense

            LB Michael Osei III with two interceptions.

EMSPORTS 11/26/2022

The time of year when the clocks fall back and daylight savings’ time disappears can only mean one thing: The playoffs are here.

In Central Virginia, the fans are treated to teams at public and private schools battling for state supremacy after getting their bumps and bruises from the rugged battles through district and regional play.

In the six different class divisions that the VHSL offers, very few areas in the state can make the claim they have teams at four different classifications competing in the state tournament.  

In Division 1, the Altavista Colonels (14-9) were regional runners-up.  A former champion, this team was seeking their second title in program history.  

In Division 2, the Appomattox Raiders (22-2) qualified for their first ever state tournament as their regional runner-up.  They had been close in the past but finally made it to the big show to chase a title. The Raiders did not taste defeat until they entered the regional finals.

The Division 3, two-time defending state champs, the Rustburg Red Devils (19-3) were looking to go three-peat as they made it to the regional championship.  The team was new in many ways with a new coach and graduating half the team from last year, the defending champs still were a threat. 

The final representative from the area was the EC Glass Hilltoppers (16-11) who finished second in their region of Division 4 and were looking to add to their school’s highly decorated championship trophy case.

All these teams were worthy but unfortunately each team fell in the state quarterfinal round of their respective tournament.  A great season from each team came up just a little short of the ultimate prize.  

The private school was also represented by 2021 VISAA Division III champ, the Timberlake Christian Tornadoes.  This team had a fantastic season starting 12-0 and entered the state finals with only two losses.  Their effort to repeat fell a little short as well with a 3-1 loss to StoneBridge.  The Tornadoes finished at 28-3.

EMPORTS 11/13/2022

On this last regular season football Friday, the first Friday in November is center stage for what is becoming a great rivalry in the Hill City.  The presence of Lynchburg Christian Academy as a constant threat in the Seminole District and on the Class 3 level cannot be understated.  This program has gained a reputation for being in the mix since joining the public school ranks back in 2015.  They are still looking to lock down that elusive football title after finishing runner-up in 2021.  The EC Glass Hilltoppers are the oldest and most historic program in Lynchburg with multiple titles but no rings in four decades.

Each year The LCA, EC Glass and Heritage programs are a three-headed monster with each vying to be the best in the district and grab bragging rights over their counterparts. 

That holds true again this year as LCA is the #1 team in the state and undefeated at 9-0. The Hilltoppers (8-1) have just one loss (to Heritage) but could claim a share of the Seminole Crown with a win tonight creating a tie at the top with all 3 Lynchburg teams.  

The Bulldogs boast perhaps the state’s best running back in sophomore Gideon Davidson.  The all everything athlete boasts multiple Division 1 offers and leads a talented offense with threats at all levels.

EC Glass counters with an offense averaging nearly 38 points a game led by the pure arm talent recording breaking  signal caller QB George White, who is arguably the best passer in the area and all-time passer in EC Glass history.

Each team is ranked number 1 in their respective playoff brackets and will lose no ground with a loss due to the strength of their schedules.

This game is a great tune-up for the VHSL playoffs which begin next week and both squads will use this as a springboard for momentum as they seek to capture respective state titles in the Class 3A and Class 4A divisions. 

The Bulldogs initial game drive produce no points as the Glass’ defense was more than up to the challenge.  A poorly executed punt from LCA gave EC Glass great field position at the LCA 35-yard line.  The Hilltoppers took advantage of the gift and put together a great drive that resulted in a score to take a 7-0 lead halfway they the first period.  The Bulldogs were determined to get their points as well however the Big Blue defense would not back down.  After another failed LCA possession, EC Glass drove the ball methodically down the field and the end result was another touchdown.  This score was the work of Vari Gilbert, who danced and shimmied into the endzone on a three-yard burst to increase Glass' lead to 14-0.

The Bulldogs took the next possession with the goal of scoring before the half.  They found their most success however they could not complete the mission.  As the Bulldogs got into the redzone, they were up against the clock and the defense.  Their last-ditch effort only got the ball to the EC Glass three-yard line as the halftime horn sounded.  

The second half started with EC Glass driving to a momentum changing play got the Bulldogs a much-needed break.  A fumble recovery led to a long return by LCA into Glass’s territory.  The new life was a catalyst as LCA scored 14 unanswered to tie the game at 14-14.  The Bulldogs lost Gideon Davidson to injury in the 1st quarter but his teammates rallied to tie the game in his absence.

The Hilltoppers were stunned but rebounded with a great ground effort as the closed the game on a 12-0 scoring finish.  The scores were setup by the passing game from White who then turned to the ground game to finish off the Bulldogs.

With the upset, Glass claimed a co-championship of the Seminole District and solidified the number 1 seed in Region 4D.  LCA may not be undefeated but are still the team to beat as the top team in Region 3C.

EMSPORTS 11/4/2022

The battle on this lovely fall Thursday night was a great matchup of two of the city’s finest football teams.  The undefeated LCA Bulldogs were holding home field advantage but the visiting team only drove a few miles to Williams Stadium.

The Heritage Pioneers were undefeated in Seminole District play and looking to boost there playoff position as both Pioneers and Bulldogs will be battling for VHSL 3A supremacy.  

With the high quality of coaching on both sidelines, Frank Rocco and Brad Bradley, commanded two of the best teams in the state and this was a battle of massive proportions.

Heritage struck first after both teams couldn’t score on their initial drives.  The Pioneers drove the field with a great mix of run and pass to the tune of a touchdown pass of nine yards on third down. Hov Bateman to Terrell Washington was the connection as the QB found his man and Washington dragged two defenders into the endzone.  The touchdown drive left about three minutes in the first quarter for LCA to respond. The point after attempt kick was unsuccessful and the score was 6-0.

The Heritage defense had a tough task with the likes of Gideon and Caleb Davidson spearheading the high-powered offense and the powerful offensive line making lanes.   They were up to the challenge holding the Bulldogs to zero points in the first half and securing a big turnover in the endzone when LCA was driving when attempting to answer the Heritage touchdown. 

The Bulldogs’ defense was no slouch and stepped up to the plate to stymie a Pioneers’ drive when they intercepted a Hov Bateman pass and gave themselves great field position with about six minutes left in the second quarter. Both teams traded possessions with no points being scored and the Pioneers leading 6-0 into the half.

The ground game was the big factor for both teams.  Heritage got strong contributions from Bateman with 63 yards and RB Rajan Booker who added 50.  The Bulldogs made noise with the area's leading rusher in Gideon Davidson who collected 81 rushing yards in the half.  

A strong first half by the Heritage defense kept the LCA powerhouse offense at bay but the secon half was a different story.  The legs, hands and feet of Gideon Davidson ignited the change the home team needed. The all world sophomore running back knew the assignment and got the ball early after halftime.  He caught a pass and carried the ball several times on the opening drive in the third quarter.  The last carry going was special as he went for 32 yards to the house.  The momentum shifted to the Bulldogs and they had a new life with a 7-6 lead at the 10 minute mark in the third quarter.  

A quick three and out by the Heritage offense just gave LCA more opportunity to crack up the offense.  The Bulldogs stuck to the game plan of ground and pound and it paid off as the Davidson duo push the ball to the Heritage 28.  It was here that LCA used the run to suck in the defense before the play action pass for Joe Borches to TE Carson Meadows for a 28-yard touchdown pass. The extra point pushed the score to 14-6 and LCA was officially rolling. 

The Heritage defense finally got a stop and the ensuing punt was a plus for a heritage as it was woefully short and stopped on the LCA 33-yard line giving Heritage great positive field position.  The drive was great until they were stopped on fourth down inside the redzone.  The Bulldogs were able to provide a great defensive stand and LCA breathed a sigh of relief as the score stayed 14-6 going into the fourth quarter.  

The Bulldogs and Pioneers traded blows after the LCA TD pass and neither team was able to score.  The Pioneers had one last gasp with about 1:30 left but a Sam O’Reegan interception of an errant Hov Bateman pass sealed the hard fought victory for the Bulldogs.

The win improves LCA to 7-0 on the year and a firm grip as the #1 team in the Seminole and Class 3A.  The Pioneers fall to 5-2 and suffer their first loss in district play.

EMSPORTS 10/13/22

The EC Glass Hilltoppers entered Lancer Stadium with momentum after a win last week.  The homestanding Amherst Lancers were perfect on the year and on Homecoming Night, they were excited to keep their winning streak alive.  

The opening drive was a good start for the Hilltoppers until they turned the ball over on a fumble after gaining a first down on teh fourth down pass play.  The Lancer defense created the turnover on a strip of the Glass receiver.  

Amherst Lancers started their initial drive with a first down but a critical holding penalty took a touchdown off the board.  The Lancers' punt was a sign of not taking advantage of opportunities all evening.  

EC Glass was able to breakthrough and score twice on the stingy defense of the Lancers.  By scoring 14 points, the Hilltoppers took a 14-0 lead into the half.

Amherst was poised to gain control in the second half but each time they made progress, EC Glass had an answer.  The rally fell short and the Hilltoppers never relinquished the lead.  The boys from midtown, made the trip up 29N and took the trophy back with a 24-7 victory handing Amherst their first loss of the season.

Both teams now have identical 5-1 records on the season and start the second half of the season going in opposite directions. 

EMSPORTS 10/7/2022

When you think of dominance in the Seminole district, the Lynchburg Christian Academy Bulldogs have claimed the top spot in the last couple of years.  Lynchburg’s newest public school is no stranger to winning but their championship success is from the private school ranks.  LCA has made an effort to change that as they have reached the state semifinals in the VHSL 3 class in the last two seasons including a runner-up finish last year on their home turf at Liberty University.  They keep knocking but haven’t knocked the door down.

On the other side of the field is a common state contender and multiple champion in the same division.  The Brookville Bees has enjoyed success for decades and can claim to be at the top of the district year in and year out.  The Bees are no strangers to big games and they are usually the hunter and not the hunted.  This showdown between two undefeated district brethren early in the season, is an indicator of the league’s depth.

The schools only separated by about five miles took the battle to Stinger Stadium for this fall evening in Campbell County.  The Bulldogs were not fazed by the maroon and gold nor the buzz of the home field crowd.  The Bulldogs with many red clad fans of their own, took the game over from the onset and never looked back.  The Bulldogs have an assortment of weapons on offense and a great display of talent in both sides of the ball.  The biggest name many be sophomore running back Gideon Davidson who can electrify the crowd with his speed, vision and moves.  His stellar play has caught the attention of multiple college coaches and several high-profile universities. 

Brookville and LCA entered the second quarter with the Bulldogs up 14-0 on the strength of touchdown passes by QB Joe Borchers.  The scoring opened up with a TD pass to Gideon Davidson (56 yards) on the team’s first offensive play and then a second TD scoring pass to Jaden Skates, a transfer from Heritage High School, who caught a 61 yarder. Borchers, a transfer from powerful IMG Academy, made his passes count and led his team to five consecutive scoring drives on the first five possessions.

The second quarter was more of the same with 21 more points from Davidson as he scored on a two- yard run, a 34-yard TD rush and finally a 3-yard scamper. LCA took a 35-0 lead into halftime.  With a comfortable lead, the running clock went into effect in the second half.  

The second half only confirmed what the fans had seen from the onset.  The Bees could never muster a threat nor any real challenge.  Drake McDaniel did score on a QB sneak to give Brookville some life.  The score was 35-7 midway through the third quarter.  But LCA continued to make points and eat up yards when Borchers and Skates connected for another long pass play setting up a fifth TD for Davidson who finished with a combined 200 total yards. At the end of the fourth quarter, the Bulldogs' work was done and it resulted in a convincing 47-7 victory. 

The win makes LCA a perfect 5-0 and the loss drops the Bees to 4-1 and a notch below LCA in the race to capture the Seminole district crown.

EMSPORTS 9/22/2022

The annual Jug Bowl Battle or HillCity Showdown is ready for a spectacular evening on this mid-September Friday.  The 2022 edition engages two teams with high octane offenses and a desire to gain a leg up in the Seminole District race.

The midtown representatives from EC Glass High School are 3-0 on the young season and looking to take back the Jug Bowl.  The Hilltoppers last held the little brown jug back in 2017.  The Pioneers of Heritage will make the trip from Timberlake Road to City Stadium looking to maintain the tight grip they have of this highly coveted trophy and bragging rights. In the previous 60 games played between the oldest high schools in Lynchburg, these combatants were nearly even in overall success. 

The Hilltoppers lead 31-28-1 in the storied history of the series.  There was a tie in 1985.  However, recent success belongs to the Pioneers who have walked away with the victor’s trophy 13 of the last 14 battles.

This game will always be competitive and with the players sharing not only the gridiron but many times bloodlines as well.  The  game runs deeper than the white lines in City Stadium and with so many memorable games in the past, this one is had the same entertainment value. 

Both teams turned the ball over when entering the redzone looking to score.  The Pioneers turned the ball over first but Glass returned the favor when a timely hit by Marcus White (nine tackles) jarred the ball loose and created a fumble.  It was recovered by Heritage at the 10-yd line putting an end to a promising Hilltoppers' drive inside the redzone. 

As both teams struggled offensively, the defenses dominated until near the end of the half.  This is when Heritage finally broke through the defense of EC Glass.  The Pioneers secured another interception as White made another outstanding play, snagging an one-handed interception in the endzone as Glass was progressing once again into the Heritage defensive end.  This was the second pick at the expense of George White, the Hilltoppers’ signal caller.  This time the Pioneers did not waste the gift.  With another trip into the redzone, Heritage executed a beautiful pass play as QB  Bateman hit WR Trayvion Clark on a 16-yard pitch and catch.  Glass was able to block the point after attempt but the damage was done with 38 seconds before halftime and Heritage taking a 6-0 lead.

There was very little change after halftime.  The defenses did not give up much and they  continued to turn away every effort presented by the offense.  The game entered the fourth quarter as it has entered the third quarter with Heritage ahead 6-0. 

Quarterback Jaicere Bateman was the hero for Heritage football team as he added a 10-yard rushing touchdown in the 4th quarter to go with his touchdown pass earlier.  He transferred from EC Glass and the Pioneers are happy he did.  Bateman, had been coached by his father his entire playing career until he entered high school.  The lessons and hard work paid off.

The hero on defense for Heritage was junior Marcus White, who had nine tackles and three interceptions and two broken up passes.  There were many college scouts in attendance and they were treated to a show with the play of White and Bateman. 

Jaciere Bateman concluded the scoring with an impressive 32-yard TD run up the middle with under two minutes to play to seal the victory.  Bateman finished with over 200 total yards by himself to propel the offense. The 12-0 lead was more than enough points.  After another Glass failed possession, the Pioneers eventually take the final kneel downs to run out the clock and capture another Jug Bowl win. The Pioneers’ defense were the MVPs on the night.  The orange jerseys flying around on defense forced five turnovers.  They recorded four interceptions, (three by Marcus White) and a critical fumble recovery.  The little brown jug will stay in Big Orange Country for another year.  

EMSports 9/16/2022 

Lynchburg VA
Jamar Smith  A freshman was the spark plug for his E.C.Glass track team he won 55 meter
On the first run at 4-State Championship at Liberty indoor track complex. Oakes From Heritage have commitment to Stanford won the long jump title on the first day of class3 state track and field championship.  Jamar Smith time in 55 meters was 7.9.4  seconds Rodney Smith who coaches EC Glass track team Jamar Smith is his son.   EM-Sports 2/28/22

Lynchburg VA

Glass boys opened the postseason with a win over Pulaski 66-42 in the Region 4DQuarterfinals at McCue Gymnasium on Friday night. Glass Junior points guard O'Maundre Harris led the way with 20 points and eight assists. Eli Wood had 10 rebounds and eight points for Glass. the Hilltoppers hit 12-3 pointers against Pulaski and shot 66% on two-point attempts 14of 21. Glass

use pressure defense it causes Pulaski a lot of turnovers in-game. the Hilltoppers 20-2 led 51-19

at the end of the third-quarter DJ Best emptied his bench in the fourth quarter.

EM-SPORTS 2/18/22
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Lynchburg VA

Region 4D Girls quarterfinals E.C.Glass Jamiyah Henry score the first three-pointers from the corner to put Glass on the scoreboard first. Henry finished the game with 25 points against Blacksburg. and Emily Williams chipped in points, and Jordyn Wright- Goods
grabbed 18 rebounds and scored nine points as the top-seeded. A junior point guard 
Jeriyah Osborne had 7points and five assists for Glass. the Hilltoppers had seven 3-
pointers, in-game. Glass advances to the region semifinals. EM-SPORTS 2/18/22

The EC Glass Lady Hilltoppers had been the closest things next to perfect over the last three years.  They had won the Seminole District three years with an unblemished record and they were looking to capture their second district tourney title.

The Lady Bulldogs wanted to make all that go away.   They had already lost twice to EC Glass and they knoew how important a win would be in this final game and for the regional playoffs.

The young LCA team got off to a great start and then outscored EC Glass 18 to 8 in the second quarter.  The defense was able to suffocate EC Glass guard Jamiya Henry who went 0 of 3 from behind the 3 point arc and she didn't record a single field goal at all. The points came from her success at the free throw line, where she was 4 of 6.

The young, powerful duo of Brooklyn Jenkins and Avery Mills, it was a sign of the future is now.  The two young stars of LCA combined to go 14 of 22 from the field where LCA shot 19 of 34 and 55.9% as a team. EC Glass did not hit a single three-point (0 of 11), and shot 12 of 51 from the field 23.5 % on the game.

Avery Mills had 28 points.  The super sophomore has already received several Division 1 offers but has committed to Liberty University. Her teammate Jenkins, just a freshman, scored 13 points. The two ladies combined to outscore EC Glass by themselves 41 to 30.  LCA had 14 rebounds on the defensive boards in contrast to Glass who recorded 11 rebounds on defense.  The leading scorer for the Hilltoppers was junior Jeriyah Osborne who had 13 points. 

EMSPORTS 2/18/2022

Lovingston VA

Nelson won Dogwood District a rematch of a game that took place just three days ago
the game went back and forth. the governors went undefeated run through Dogwood District. Coach Marvin Martin said I hope that we can continue to win. This is Martin second year been head coach at Nelson. After spending a decade on the sideline as an assistant coach Nelson basketball team. Nelson had a balanced attack with scored Martin with a team-high 17 points and Purvis, McGarry had 14 points. Willoughby chipped in nine for Nelson, Purvis had 10-rebounds for Governors win 61-38 and Hunt had 18 points for Altavista loss. EM-SPORTS 2/15/22

Lynchburg VA

The playoffs are an exciting time for all players and fans.  The coaches may say otherwise but to accomplish the mission, everyone must be committed and focused. 

In VHSL Class 3 action, Rustburg battled Tabb in search of back-to-back state championship gold. The Red Devils put up a very convincing effort from start to finish. They opened the first set with a 25-15 victory. That was followed by a 25-17 win in set two. Tabb showed grit winning set three, but Rustburg bounced back to win the match and it’s second consecutive Class 3 state title with a 3-1 win.

Rustburg has won 44 out of 45 matches in this championship year.  They have been undefeated in district play over that time span and lost only two sets during the entire playoff run starting with the Seminole District title up and culminating with the VHSL Class 3 title. 

Timberlake Christian wins their first outright VISAA Division 3 Volleyball Championship.  This program has always been close but could not get over the hump until this year.  The team has won multiple VACA state titles but this was the one trophy missing in the trophy case.  That box has been checked.

In a highly contested title tilt, the Tornadoes found themselves facing a common nemesis, the StoneBridge Cavaliers. StoneBridge was riding a 17 match winning streak into the championship contest. This match was a repeat of the same teams, in the same round from two years ago when the last VISAA tournament was held.  In that match, StoneBridge bested Timberlake by a score of 3 sets to none.

It seemed the memory had not faded and the tornadoes were on the move to erase that stunning defeat and make history of their own.  With a powerful combination of passing, great shot blocking and timely kills, Timberlake avenged the 2019 loss to the Cavaliers(24-3) with the same score of 3-0 to secure that elusive state championship.

Each set was a little more difficult than the previous as the final scores were 25-11, 25-23 and 29-27.  

This victory is sweeter than all the others combined as the Tornadoes completed the season with a 22 match winning streak and an overall record of 27-3.

EMSPORTS.org  11/14/2021

EC Glass and Brookville locked up in a great late season battle as the regular season slowly winds down.  On this wonderful and crisp fall evening, the air was thin and the sense that summer was slowly seeping away, provided fans a new backdrop for how the season was slowly transforming.

This series is always a great battle as the schools are roughly 10 miles apart but the competition could easily be a backyard brawl.

The Hilltoppers(7-1) and Bees(5-2) were both sporting impressive records as each team looked forward to this Friday night showdown.  

The Hilltoppers didn’t wait to get the home crowd at City Stadium riled up.  In the first quarter, Markevus Graves found a seam and used his vision and speed to race into the endzone from 24 yards away.  The running back’s touchdown gave the Hilltoppers the early lead and was the catalyst for the offensive explosion. 

The Bees attempted to answer back but EC Glass repelled every Brookville effort.  The Hilltoppers continued to push the ball down the field and QB George White was the main reason.  White complete touchdown passes in back to back drives and help catapult the Hilltoppers into a 28-0 halftime lead. 

The Hilltoppers dominated in all phases of the matchup.  While the offense set the scoreboard on fire, the defense didn’t disappoint either.  In addition to limiting the high scoring Bees to only one touchdown and 18 yards in the first half, the defense added some points to the scoreboard.  Owen Dunlop made good with his hands, picked off an errant Bees’ pass and took an interception for a 23-yard TD to the promise land.  

With the victory, Glass all but assures themselves of an opening round home game when the Division 4D regional playoffs start in two weeks.  They have on big test left as they face the undefeated and #1 LCA Bulldogs for a chance to tie for the Seminole District title next week.  Brookville will look to bounce back and solidify their home field advantage for Division 3, Region C play in the week after next.  They take on fellow Campbell County school, the Rustburg Red Devils in the season finale.

Game Highlights: 

EC Glass

QB George White 144 yards passing and 3TDs

Eli Wood with two TD receptions

Q Foster with two touchdowns rushing

324 total yards on offense

Defense gave up 104 yards and intercepted 3 passes

EM-SPORTS 10/30/2021

The Rustburg Red Devils continued their dominance in the 2021 season.  The Red Devils recently received their long awaited 2020 State Championship rings which came via their VHSL 3A state tourney title during the Spring of 2021.

The Red Devils hosted the Lady pioneers from Heritage High School.  The home team went undefeated in Seminole District play in the spring and they weren't ready to up their consecutive winning streak.  They wasted little time controlling the net and the points.  The Lady Red Devils jumped out to an early double digit lead in both the first two sets as they cruised to a quick 2-0 lead.

Rustburg seamlessly tried multiple combinations through the third set.  Heritage who didn't lack for effort, stayed close in the third set and made several great passes to earn key points but fell short in the third set.

The Red Devils continue their winning ways and continue to strive for another state championship as they maintain their perfect district record.  The Pioneers will build on the momentum from late in the match as they continue their season with hopes of stringing together a few more wins.

EM-SPORTS 10/5/2021

The Central Virginia area is highly blessed with great student athletes. On the last Saturday in June 2021, three area teams battled inspite of the obstacles that the Covid-19 pandemic had presented.  No VHSL Championships took place in the Spring of 2020.  However, that didn't matter as each of these teams were locked in to their respective state championship title games. The disruptive academic year and a delayed sports season would not prevent these Queens of the Softball Diamond from shining the brightest when it mattered the most.

APPOMATTOX RAIDERS, CLASS 2 STATE CHAMPIONS

There was a plethora of blue and white in the stands and hills surrounding Randolph Henry’s Softball field.  The Appomattox community showed up in full force to support their Lady Raiders.  In this highly anticipated matchup of the last two teams standing in VHSL Class 2, the fact both teams were undefeated added more spice to this final game. The 35-mile drive was the all that stood between these two dominating programs as they looked to decide the state championship.  Freshmen pitcher Danner Allen and her batterymate, fellow freshmen catcher, Summer Jones, were the combination to beat.  Leading their team to a perfect 15-0 record as they looked to claim their first state title in four tries. 

The Lady Raiders countered with scintillating sophomore pitcher, Courtney Layne who also could boast of having an undefeated team behind her at 14-0. The game was a pitchers’ duel with each hurler doing their best to keep the opposing batters unbalanced and shaking their heads. Layne saved the best for last as she pitched her fourth perfect game of the season. The offense was provided by the timely hitting of Macee Hargis’ triple that drove in Kelsey Hackett, who crushed a double in her at-bat.

The back-to-back hits broke the scoreless tie.  Hargis then added some insurance with her heads up running when she scored on a wild pitch.  The Raiders softball team counted on the arm of Layne and she did not disappoint striking out 14 batters.  Her exceptional pitching was the catalyst to the Raiders capturing 2021 VHSL Class 2 Softball State Championship title today with a 2-0 win over the Randolph-Henry Lady Statesmen. 

It is the first softball state championship for Appomattox County High School since 1987, when current Raiders head coach Janet Rawes was a member of that team coached by Mary Tolley. 

RUSTBURG LADY RED DEVILS, CLASS 3 STATE CHAMPS

It is never too late to score but it sure can make you nervous.  The VHSL Class 3 Softball title was a matchup of superlative pitching.  The Rustburg Red Devils went with their ace, Eden Bigham, an UVA commit and the host of New Kent put the ball in the hands of Gracie Ellis, who has committed to Randolph-Macon College.  The pitchers did not disappoint in this matchup going pitch for pitch and strike for strike.  This pitchers’ duel was worth the hype but unfortunately someone had to lose.  This same matchup of teams took place earlier in the spring when Rustburg defeated New Kent on the volleyball court for the state championship.  De ja vu' anyone?

New Kent Trojans were hoping to capture its first state softball championship; while the Red Devils had earned the title three times during the 1990’s.  Coincidentally, the star of those teams is the current coach, Katie (Phillips) Bigham, also known as the Rustburg's head coach and mother of Eden. Bigham, the owner of four perfect games this year was looking to repeat what her mother had accomplished and win a state title in a Red Devil uniform. 

The weather was not always pleasant as rain fell on and off throughout the early part of the game.  Enough rain fell to delay the game in the third inning, but that was only a small pause it what turned out to be a classic battle. The critical moments took place in the seventh, when a single to right field by Emily Coates was followed by a stolen base.  As she stood on second, she then got bunted over to third from a successful sacrifice by Maggie Mayhew.  Coates was able to score on a sharply hit single by Carly Hudnall.  The ball landed in front of the center fielder who was not able to throw Coates out in time.

That was all Bigham needed as she shutdown the Trojans in the final frame as she had done all game lone.  Bigham struck out the side even while allowing only the second hit of the game, when Addi Rowe ripped a single into right field.  Her effort was in vain because Bigham wouldn’t let that hit interrupt her rhythm or her focus.  Bigham collected 16 strikeouts and punctuated the final out of the game with her signature mix of pitches that resulted in a celebration following another strikeout.  The heartbreaking loss moved the Trojans' record to a fantastic 15-2.  The win closed out a perfect 17-0 season for the Red Devils.

AMHERST LANCERS, CLASS 4 STATE CHAMPS

The Amherst Lancers made the drive to Hanover Hawks’ field with confidence and nerves of steel.  This team was about to make history as the first Amherst Lancer Softball team to play in a state championship game.  They also had to go on the road again where they found success in the semifinal round defeating Tuscarora, 3-1 in eight innings. The Lancer faithful was in a tizzy in anticipation in hopes that the Lady Lancers could win the State 4 Softball Championship.

However, as they experienced on Wednesday in Leesburg, good things come to those who wait and wait and wait.

The Lancers were overwhelmed and dominated in the first 3 innings.  The Hawks’ sensational sophomore pitcher, Julia Cuozzo, had no problem the first time through the order.  She struck out the first 7 batters and then a lengthy summer thunderstorm appeared.  It was about the only thing that could slow down Cuozzo.  After about an hour delay, Cuozzo picked right back up and fanned the next two batters, bring her total to nine in a row.

Pitcher Dylan McNerney, Cuozzo’s sophomore counterpart, answered the challenge but did it in a different manner.  McNerney danced in and out of trouble but was equally as effective and received tremendous team defense behind her.  This was no more evident than in the third inning, when an attempted bunt and run turned into an inning ending double play.  The bunt was popped into the air when catcher Maddie Jennings secured the out then smartly gunned down the runner at third base trying to advance.

Amherst finally got a hit in the fourth inning, however as became the theme, Cuozzo would strike out batters when it mattered the most. As the game got late into the night and the fans were standing in anticipation of the first team to crack, the game went into extra innings just to add to the tension felt inside and outside the field.  

Finally, two errors by Hanover gave Amherst new life and they would not spoil this golden opportunity.  Courtesy runner Cheyenne Wall, with two outs, scored base on an errant throw to first base to give the visitors a 1-0 lead. A wild pitch moments later would bring home Maegan Lloyd, extending to lead to 2-0, adding some extra cushion and a small sigh of relief.

McNerney was fantastic striking out 10 batters and surrendering only two hits, to keep the Lancers (15-2) in it. Julia Cuozzo was even better in the circle, allowing only three hits and striking out 17 batters in the losing effort however her fielding and throwing errors would be the team’s downfall.  

After a near four-hour battle, the sweet taste of the win produced the first ever softball championship trophy in Amherst County program history to sit in the display case.  The victory also halted the 15-game winning streak of Hanover (15-1) who was looking to capture first Virginia High School League state softball title since 2006.

EMSPORTS.org 6/28/2021

A rivalry can mean many things. It is a competition or conflict. It can be a battle of wills or
a struggle to the finish. The HillCity Showdown between the Heritage Pioneers and EC Glass Hilltoppers is a highly anticipated contest that takes place in front of jam packed fans and standing room only gyms. In 2021, the stands are nearly 100% empty but the intensity and energy didn’t change.

In Round 1 of this crosstown rivalry, the Pioneers made their way into McCue Gymnasium looking to wipe away the defeat from LCA Bulldogs earlier this week. The Hilltoppers were just excited to finally play their first basketball game and nothing would be better than beating those guys from Heritage.

The game was tight in the first quarter with lead changing hands 11 times until Glass pulled away to 15-11 advantage. Both teams picked up the pace and offensive efficiency as each scored 18 points allowing Glass to maintain the lead, 33-29 at the half.

First year Heritage coach, Tony Crews, could be seen imploring his guys to match the intensity of their opponents. Even as both teams struggled at times, the desire and will to win could not be ignored. The buttons Coach Crews pushed in his coaching debut of this rivalry indicate that he created the right combination in the third quarter. The Pioneers erupted on offense and clamped down on the defense. Kyle Ferguson took the game over in the second half with his array of long-distance marksmanship and his athletic finishes in the paint. The junior sharp shooting guard finished with 27 points including 4 three-pointers in the second half when the Pioneers came roaring back from down four points to outscore their arch-rivals 38-18.

Ferguson got help from senior guard Jacobi Lambert who had 10. Darius Brown and Bre’Andre Horsley added 12 apiece and helped the visitors in blue dominate the boards getting multiple second chance points and curtailing and hopes of a comeback from EC Glass.

The Hilltoppers now 0-1, could not capitalize on their early success and the Ferguson Train steamrolled them late in the game. The Hilltoppers strived in vain but foul trouble and poor shooting characterized their second half woes. Three Hilltoppers scored in double figures as Zach Smith scored 12, Aidan Treacy chipped 11 and Camp Conner finished with 10. Pioneers are now 2-1 on the young season.

by EMSPORTS 1/14/2021