After a 30-minute weather delay, the Brookhaven High Panthers took the field in a quest to beat the defending 6A Champion Pearl Pirates.

In the end it would be Pearl coming out on top of Brookhaven 36-7.

The Pirates got off to a strong start with running backs Elijah Harris and Samuel Brumfield doing damage as they forced the Panthers defense to be on the field most of the night. 

Harris started the night off with 53-yard touchdown run for the Pirates on an off-tackle run.  The Brookhaven offense would continue to sputter throughout the first quarter, as they would have three consecutive three-and-outs. 

This opened the door once again for the Pirates to take advantage of a worn-out defense.

Pearl, behind the strength of a powerful offensive line, would drive 84 yards for another Pirate rushing touchdown.  Pirates kicker Caden Davis missed the PAT attempt and Pearl led 13-0.

Pearl’s running attack was relentless with a rotation of four running backs.  The run first offense was on full display as they continued to pound the rock.

The Pirates struck once again late in the second quarter when quarterback Shade Foster would connect on a pass to extend their lead before the half.

The Brookhaven defense, led by senior Wesley Calcote, held the Pirates for the remainder of the half. Pearl led 20-0 at halftime.

Every Panther had completely different body language coming out of halftime.

Brookhaven, led by senior quarterback Sevante Quinn, put together a 72-yard scoring drive.  The Panthers looked to have found a rhythm on the offensive side of the ball. 

The Panther defense forced Pearl into a punting situation shortly after, which looked to be a pivotal turning point in the game.  Brookhaven took over the ball at the 35-yard line. 

On first down Quinn had exchange issues that led to a fumble recovery for a short touchdown by Pearl that dashed any hopes of a Brookhaven comeback.

Story by Steve Cooper