Baseball or Football? Andrews defeats Swain County 2-0

Photo By Joanna McMahan

In a hard-fought defensive battle, the Andrews Wildcats narrowly defeated the Swain County Maroon Devils 2-0 in a game determined by intense defensive plays and missed opportunities on offense.

The first quarter saw both teams stifled on offense. Swain’s initial drive resulted in a three-and-out, quickly followed by Andrews suffering a similar fate after a sack disrupted their rhythm. Swain managed to string together a few plays on their third drive, with a notable reception by Sylas Stanberry that moved them to a first down. However, they ultimately could not convert, leading to another punt.

As the game progressed, the defenses continued to dominate. Andrews found themselves pushed back after a tackle for loss by Swain’s Zeke Glaspie, leading to another punt. Swain’s fourth drive showed flashes of promise with a successful pass to Stanberry and a 23-yard gain on the ground by Glaspie, but they still failed to score, punting from Andrews’ 41-yard line.

The Wildcats finally get on the board as a missed snap on Swain’s punt rolled out the back end zone for a safety, giving Andrews a 2-0 lead. This score, while minimal, would turn out to be pivotal as the teams headed into halftime.

The second half mirrored the first, with both offenses struggling to capitalize on opportunities. Swain’s sixth drive was promising after Stilwell returned a punt to the Wildcats’ 16-yard line. However, despite the favorable field position, they could not convert, with a field goal attempt hitting the left post and resulting in a turnover on downs.

As the game entered the fourth quarter, the defensive battle continued. Both teams exchanged a series of three-and-outs, with Andrews unable to extend their lead and Swain remaining unable to find the end zone. Andrews attempted a risky play on fourth down deep in Swain territory, but the rush fell short, resulting in turning the ball over once again.

With less than two minutes remaining, Swain mounted a final drive, led by Mason Cochran’s key rushes that kept hope alive. However, desperation struck when Stevenson attempted a throw in the closing seconds, only to be intercepted by Andrews’ Brady McLelland, sealing the victory for the Wildcats.

In a game defined by defense and missed chances, Andrews emerged victorious with a final score of 2-0.