The Hayesville Yellow Jackets delivered a heart-pounding performance on Friday night, securing a 37-35 victory against the Union Academy Cardinals in a playoff showdown. Despite the Cardinals' explosive start and home-field advantage, Hayesville showcased resilience and determination to earn the win.
The game began with Union Academy taking the lead early in the first quarter with a 20-yard rushing touchdown. Hayesville responded with a 1-yard touchdown run by junior standout Tre Graves, followed by a successful extra point from Michael Mauney. However, the second quarter belonged largely to Union Academy, who extended their lead with two touchdown passes, including a remarkable 73-yard strike with just 41.9 seconds left in the half. Hayesville managed to stay within striking distance thanks to a 17-yard touchdown run from Graves, though the extra point attempt failed.
Trailing 28-13 at halftime, Hayesville came out of the locker room determined to fight back. Graves continued his dominance in the second half, scoring twice in the third quarter—a 5-yard touchdown run followed by a 42-yard sprint to the end zone. Graves also powered through for two successful two-point conversions, pulling the Yellow Jackets within three points.
In the fourth quarter, the Cardinals struck first with a 2-yard rushing touchdown, extending their lead to 35-29. Hayesville, however, was undeterred. Graves capped off his stellar night with a 49-yard touchdown run, followed by yet another successful two-point conversion to put the Yellow Jackets ahead for good.
Graves accounted for all five of Hayesville’s touchdowns, finishing with 114 yards rushing in the second half alone. His relentless determination, paired with a gritty performance from the Yellow Jackets' defense, sealed the victory.
With this win, Hayesville improves to 4-7 on the season and sets their sights on a tough upcoming matchup against the undefeated Mountain Heritage Cougars (9-0) in round two on Friday, November 22. The Cougars, fresh off a dominant 57-7 victory over North Stokes, will provide a formidable challenge, but the Yellow Jackets have proven they can rise to the occasion when it matters most.
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