Bulldogs and Fox Cubs go down to the wire

What maybe the biggest rivalry in Marion County sports took place at Mullins High School this past week as Palmetto Middle School and Johnakin Middle School went to battle on the football field.

After a scoreless first quarter thanks to some stifling defense from both squads, Johnakin earned a blocked punt from Rashard Warrens and Jamerius Summerton.

Marion struck first on a 65-yard drive with less than three minutes remaining in the first half.

Fox Cubs running back Damazzi Bethea scored on a 20-yard touchdown run to give Johnakin a 6-0 lead at halftime.

Palmetto got a big lift from Justin Hamilton, who came up with a critical interception in the first half.  Hamilton’s cut back move through traffic resulted in a 25-yard touchdown run, followed by the two-point conversion run from Justin Clark, giving the Bulldogs an 8-6, advantage.

Palmetto earned another big play on defensive when Elbert Phillips forced a fumble on the kickoff.

In the fourth quarter, Palmetto forced a turnover on downs to take possession at midfield and later converted on fourth down off a fake punt pass from quarterback Paul Stackhouse to Clark with four minutes remaining in the game. However, Johnakin forced a turnover on downs near the seven-yard line with under two minutes remaining.

With 1:15 remaining in the game, Hamilton secured the game with an elusive 20-yard touchdown for the 14-6 final.

A major highlight comes on the side of the Palmetto Bulldogs. The team welcomes a new addition in seventh grader Mychayla Crawford, who plays on the offensive line at the guard position. Crawford is the program’s first ever female football player.

Palmetto will be off this week. Johnakin will host Lake City today at Fox Field. Game time starts at 5:30 p.m.

Palmetto Bulldog coaches keep an eye on their squad during the rivalry game against Johnakin Fox Cubs.