Hoke County opened conference play with a historic win on the road after beating Scotland County for the first time in 13 years this past weekend. The final score in Laurinburg was 52-35.
The Bucks are currently averaging 36.2 points per game this season, with a 3-2 overall record and 1-0 in conference play.
Senior running back Ethan Wallace scored five touchdowns and rushed for 245 yards, bringing his season total to 899 yards rushing and 15 touchdowns. Warren Avery also had a successful performance after bringing in a couple of touchdowns. Hoke quarterback Brandon Saunders was 9 for 14 with passing, amassing a total of 110 yards.
The Buck’s defense also showed signs of improvement, as Emmanuel Bratcher scooped up one fumble. Jordan James also recorded got another assist after Stephon Sanders caused a fumble. Rashaud Ross collected an interception that helped keep Scotland County at bay, allowing Ryan Ramirez to hit a 30-yard field goal late in the game to keep the Scots out of reach.
When asked about his team’s historic win, Bucks head coach George Small likened it to one of the games with Scotland County back in the 1970s under Coach Bill Cameron.
“I was watching the first kick-off when Ryan Ramirez kicked the ball into the Scotland end zone, and the entire team ran the play all the way through the end zone,” said Coach Small. “The guys’ energy level was great, and their effort and execution were explosive. And the offense, wow! We’ve been waiting to see this level of offense for a while now, and it’s here.”
The Bucks have a difficult task ahead of them as the Lee County Yellow Jackets travel to Raeford this upcoming Friday. The Yellow Jackets currently have an impressive 5-0 record after winning their first conference game.
The game starts at 7:30 pm at Raz Autry Stadium in Raeford. The Bucks will recognize the 2022 Hall of Fame Class at halftime.
