The Whitewright Tigers spoiled Cumby’s homecoming Friday night, rallying from a 12-point deficit for a 20-18 victory to close out non-district play.
Whitewright trailed 12-0 in the second quarter before battling back and eventually taking the lead late in the fourth.
“I was really proud of our adversity in coming together in the second half and fighting back for a win,” Whitewright head coach Charlie Roten said.
Quarterback Peyton Smith completed 9 of 16 passes for 109 yards with an interception and added seven carries for 55 yards. Smith scored the game-tying touchdown late in the fourth quarter before connecting with Austin Baio on the 2-point conversion that gave Whitewright a 20-18 lead.
The Tigers’ defense then made the lead stand, stopping Cumby on four plays on the ensuing possession and taking over on downs. Whitewright was able to run out the remaining time to secure the victory.
Nolan Rigby led the Tigers on the ground with nine carries for 63 yards and a touchdown. Nate Lowery added 11 carries for 58 yards and a score.
Keelan Washington was Smith’s top target with four receptions for 45 yards and also had a 10-yard carry. Nick Ulmer finished with five carries for 44 yards and caught a 17-yard pass.
Jasper Lay and Kamdem Myers had touchdown runs for Cumby (0-4).
The victory improved Whitewright to 3-1 and sends the Tigers into District 9-2A Division I play with some momentum.
Whitewright travels down Highway 69 to face Trenton on Friday in the district opener.
“Each game from here on out is very important,” Roten said. “We must play as good as we can and have a great week of practice.”
Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. in Trenton.
Source: Freepik.com