The Shadow
WARM SPRINGS, Va. (VR) – Excitement is building in Bath County as the Chargers prepare to take the field this Friday night against longtime across state border rival, the Pendleton County Wildcats of West Virginia. The matchup, scheduled for 7 p.m. at Carl F. Williams Field, marks not only a pivotal point in the season for both squads but also serves as Bath County’s homecoming game, adding another layer of anticipation to the evening.
This year’s contest brings together two teams with strong starts to their seasons, featuring standout players and impressive recent performances. For both the Chargers and Wildcats, this Friday’s game provides an opportunity to solidify their positions and momentum heading into the latter half of the season.
The Bath County Chargers (2–1) enter the contest riding high on a two-game winning streak.
Despite stumbling in their second game of the season with a tough 50-0 loss to Buffalo Gap, the Chargers quickly regrouped. Bath County bounced back with an impressive 53-22 victory on the road against the Tygarts Valley Bulldogs, another team from West Virginia. The momentum carried over to their next appearance when they hosted the Hancock Panthers from Maryland and dominated with a convincing 42-0 shutout win. Coach and local fans alike credit the recent surge to the Chargers’ cohesive team play, especially on the offensive and defensive lines.
“The protection our O-line gave Kirby was outstanding,” noted a Bath County assistant coach.
“That’s allowed us to really open things up on offense.”
Quarterback Hunter Kirby has distinguished himself as a dual-threat weapon, adept both at launching accurate passes downfield and using his legs to extend plays. Kirby’s tactical acumen and poise under pressure have provided the Chargers with a versatile attack, while running back Ethan Bryant has capitalized on the opportunities created by the line. Bryant’s quick acceleration and elusive runs have repeatedly punctured defensive fronts, marking him as one of the team’s most dynamic playmakers.
Across the line of scrimmage, the Wildcats have also experienced a remarkable season, posting a 3–2 record heading into Friday’s bout. Although the Wildcats are coming off a difficult 42-20 loss to Tucker County, their resilience is evident. Prior to the setback, Pendleton blanked Tygarts Valley, overwhelming them 59-0 in a dominant display. That performance has set up an intriguing comparison, as both Pendleton and Bath County have claimed victories against Tygarts Valley in recent weeks. Much of Pendleton’s success can be attributed to the play of quarterback and strong safety Colton Roberson. The sophomore phenom leads the Wildcats with eleven total touchdowns and averages 102 yards per game. On defense, Robertson’s 10 tackles per contest reflect his tenacity and importance on both sides of the ball. Supporting Roberson is fellow sophomore Albert Ramos-Rivera, who has emerged as an anchor on the offensive and defensive lines. Ramos-Rivera’s two sacks and numerous tackles have energized the Wildcats’ front, while his blocking expertise provides both protection in the pocket and lanes for Pendleton ball carriers. Senior wide receiver and cornerback Corbin Dove brings additional firepower to the Wildcats’ arsenal. With multiple interceptions and key receptions on the season, Dove’s ability to shift momentum in big games will be a focal point for Bath County’s defensive strategy.
Both teams feature standout players and have demonstrated dominant defensive performances, particularly Bath County, whose D-line anchored by Asa Altizer, has effectively stymied opponents’ ground games up the middle. Their secondary, anchored by cornerback Walker Randozzo, and a strong supporting cast, has proved a formidable barrier for opponent’s receivers. For Head Coach Jake Phillips, the focus will remain on maintaining discipline and capitalizing on opportunities.
The Wildcats, meanwhile, will likely seek to exploit the edges, aware that Bath County’s defense has been stout up the middle but has occasionally yielded yardage on runs to the outside. Pendleton’s offense, orchestrated by Roberson and protected by Ramos-Rivera, will probably look to utilize quick passes and outside runs to establish rhythm early.
As the Chargers return home for what promises to be an electric homecoming atmosphere, the community is buzzing with anticipation.
Fans are encouraged to pack the stands at Carl F. Williams Field and show their support as the Chargers seek to continue their winning ways and make a statement against a formidable out-of-state opponent.
Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. this Friday, October 10.
All eyes in Bath County will be on the field as Bath County takes on Pendleton County in what could prove to be one of the season’s most exciting matchups.
