Panthers end Pilots’ football season

by Charles Choate
Fulton County High School Pilot Tyler Love had six tackles and a forced fumble in the Pilots’ season finale Nov. 8. (Photo by Charles Choate)
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The Fulton County Pilots were hoping to end a 21-year streak of losses in opening round playoff games, when they traveled to Russellville last Friday night.

That streak will now extend until at least year twenty-two.

For the second time in just over a month, the Panthers defeated the Pilots on their home field, winning the Class-A opening game 32-27.

Despite an impressive night on both the offense and defense, the Pilots saw Russelville take advantage of a 57-yard fumble recovery for touchdown by Zach Dowlen and a kickoff return by Jovari Gamble.

Fulton County led 14-13 after one quarter, and 21-19 at halftime, but Russellville used a 13-6 scoring advantage in the second half to advance in playoff play.

Caleb Kimble ended his football career with the Pilots by rushing for 194-yards and two touchdowns on 23 carries.

J’Shon Jones had 27-yards and one touchdown, with Diavian Bradley adding 25-yards and one score.

Senior quarterback Jerome Warren connected on 7-of-13 passes for 121-yards, with Broc Bridges pulling in passes for 71-yards and Webbie Turner 46-yards.

On the defensive side, Tyler Love and Dylan Hammond each had six tackles, with Broc Bridges recording five tackles.

Love and Bridges also combined for two fumble recoveries and an interception.

On the night, the Pilots generated 354 yards of total offense, compared to 283 for Russellville.

Fulton County ends their season with a record of 6-5.