HARLEM — West Laurens edged Harlem 26-21 Friday, Sept. 19.
Both the Harlem and West Laurens came into Friday’s region matchup undefeated, but the Raiders prevailed to win their fifth consecutive game.
The Bulldogs scored first on a rushing touchdown early in the first quarter by running back Jax Stadler. Harlem failed to convert the extra point, leading 6-0.
West Lauren’s running back Ty Cummings answered right back with a 13-yard rushing touchdown of his own, taking a 7-6 lead.
The Raiders extended their lead with a rushing touchdown by senior Shannon Adkins, pushing ahead 14-6.
Late in the second quarter, Harlem quarterback Mercer Barton connected with wide receiver Jayden Futrell to put the Bulldogs in scoring position. A short touchdown pass to tight end Eric Beddingfield and two-point conversion by Futrell tied the game 14-14 heading into the second half.
After West Laurens took a 20-14 lead midway through the third quarter, Futrell crossed the pylon once again for Harlem and Bulldogs kicker Connor Anderson converted the extra point to earn Harlem a 21-20 lead to start the fourth quarter.
Cummings earned his second touchdown of the night a long run, but the Raiders failed the two-point conversion to make the score 26-21.
West Lauren’s defensive back Juvon Hill sealed the win for the Raiders on the first interception of the game in the fourth quarter.
West Lauren’s and Westside are the only two team in AAA Region 4 that remain without a loss.
The Raiders will look to win their sixth consecutive game as they battle the Baldwin Braves next Friday, Sept. 26. Harlem will look to bounce back at ARC also next Friday.
Sportswriter Christopher Rickerson is an Augusta University graduate who has covered area sports for publications including Augusta University‘s Bell Ringer, The Augusta Press and Augusta Good News. Subscribe to the Augusta Good News’ free weekly newsletter here.
