Panthers rally against Pilots

For three quarters, the Fulton County Pilots had everything going their way last Friday night at Russellville.

But then again, football is a four quarter game.

After taking a commanding 22-0 lead in the third quarter, the Pilots stumbled down the stretch, allowing the Panthers to run off 23 straight points for a 23-22 district win.

The game was not only the second straight to go into the loss column for Fulton County, but also could have spoiled their chances at hosting a state playoff game on the home turf of Sanger Field.

The Pilots and Panthers played through a scoreless first quarter, before C.J. Smith gave Fulton County a 6-0 lead on a 30 yard run in the second period.

The fullback’s score was complimented with a two-point conversion run by Caleb Kimble, and Fulton County held on for an 8-0 halftime advantage.

In the third quarter, the Pilots took advantage of a Mason Eakes fumble recovery, with Kimble breaking loose for a 62-yard touchdown run on the next offensive possession.

Kimble made the score 16-0 with his second two-point conversion of the game.

The Pilots then appeared to have the game at hand later in the quarter, with quarterback Cameron Cole crossing into the endzone on a four-yard run.

The two-point conversion failed , but Fulton County went on top 22-0.

Still in the third quarter, Russellville began their comeback with quarterback Jaquis Todd scoring on a 22-yard run, and a two-point conversion for a 22-8 score.

In the final period, it was Todd throwing a 10-yard touchdown pass, again complimented by a two-point conversion and 22-16 score.

The biggest play of the night by the Panthers came with Todd throwing a 65-yard touchdown pass to tie the score at 22-22.

Russellville coach Mikie Benton then called on senior kicker Hunter McDowell, who split the uprights for what would be the winning point.

For Fulton County, Caleb Kimble had 23 carries on the night for 194 yards, with teammate C.J. Smith gaining 116 yards on 13 carries.

The loss dropped the Pilots to (4-2) on the year, (1-1) in First District play.

This week, Fulton County will celebrate Senior Night at Sanger Field, with the final home game against Calloway County.