Hayesville’s varsity football team had a tall task before them Friday, Oct. 11 as they faced the defending state champions in Murphy. The Bulldogs took control early and even though the Yellow Jackets tried to mount a comeback, Murphy was able to extinguish that fire and hand Hayesville their third loss by the final of 62-14.
Murphy wasted no time in flexing their football muscle as touchdowns came early and often in the opening quarter. By the time the opening stanza was finished, the Jackets found themselves in 28-0 hole.
In the second quarter, Hayesville was able to cut into the lead thanks to a pair of rushing touchdowns by junior Blake McClure. The Bulldogs weren’t shutout in the quarter and managed to get a touchdown back. At the half, Murphy led 35-14.
Unfortunately for Jacket Nation, the second quarter was the only one that saw the black and Vegas gold team score. Murphy would go on to add 20 points in the third quarter and 7 more in the fourth to the finish off the Jackets 62-14.
“We dug ourselves a big hole in the first quarter again because we didn’t execute early in any phase,” said Hayesville head coach Chad McClure in his post-game comments. “We have to be more focused, execute more consistently on offense and tackle better on defense.” Coach McClure said he was encouraged by the fight his team showed in the second quarter.
In other Smoky Mountain Conference action, Swain County took care of Rosman by the final of 42-7 and Andrews got the 35-24 win over Cherokee. Robbinsville had the week off.
Coming up next for Hayesville is a home showdown with Andrews Friday, Oct. 18. Looking at the matchup, coach McClure said, “We are excited about being back at home for the first time in about a month. Andrews is a very good football team and we know they will come to play. It should be a great game.” Fans can settle into their seats at Frank R. Long stadium for a 7:30 p.m. kickoff.
Leaders at Murphy
Blake McClure: two touchdowns, 117 yards, three tackles.
Hayden McClure: 70 yards, four tackles.
Lane Sisum: seven tackles.
Cable Krieger: seven tackles.