The Shadow
COVINGTON, Va. (VR) – The Alleghany Cougars showed grit and determination Friday night, battling their way to a 27-26 victory over Brookville in a back-and-forth contest that came down to the final minutes.
Head Coach Will Fields praised his team afterward, noting how returning players and newcomers alike played key roles in securing the win.
“It was a total team effort,” Fields said. “Our returning guys like Desmond Jordan and Carter Nicely really carried us, but the younger guys – Buddy Leisure-White, Zane George, and Parker Osborne – stepped up in big ways.
Brookville struck first, but Alleghany answered quickly in the first quarter when quarterback Desmond Jordan connected with Jay Godfrey on a 22-yard touchdown pass. Ethan Phillips’ extra point tied the game at 7-7.
In the second quarter, Jordan powered in from 3 yards out to briefly give the Cougars the lead. The extra point attempt failed, and Brookville responded with two scores to move in front. At halftime, Alleghany trailed 20-13.
The Cougars regrouped in the second half and mounted a strong comeback. In the fourth quarter, Carter Nicely broke loose on a 35-yard touchdown run, and Jordan followed with a successful two-point conversion to push Alleghany ahead. Later in the quarter, Jordan connected with Sarge Persinger on a 6-yard touchdown strike. Though the conversion failed, the score gave the Cougars just enough breathing room to hold off Brookville’s rally and secure the 27-26 win.
With the season-opening victory in hand, Fields turned his attention to the week ahead as Alleghany prepares for a tough road trip.
“They’ve got a really talented quarterback and a fast receiver that can stretch the field. We’ve got to cut down on penalties, stay hydrated, and be ready for a tough crowd in West Virginia. It’ll be a good test for us.”
The Cougars (1-0) travel to Greenbrier East next Friday night. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:00 p.m.
Scoring Summary
1st – Jay Godfrey 22-yd pass from Des Jordan (Ethan Phillips kick)
2nd – Des Jordan 3-yd run (kick failed)
4th – Carter Nicely 35-yd run (Des Jordan run)
4th – Sarge Persinger 6-yd pass from Des Jordan (pass failed)
