The Shadow
BATH COUNTY, (VR) — Two Pioneer District football powerhouses, riding impressive seasons, are set to clash in one of the most anticipated matchups of the season this Friday night as the Bath County Chargers (4-2) welcome the undefeated Craig County Rockets (7-0) to Carl F. Williams Field. Both teams enter the midseason contest with momentum and high expectations, each vying for a pivotal win that could shape the district playoff landscape.
The Bath County Chargers, under the guidance of coach Jake Phillips, have mirrored their strong finish from last season with a current 4-2 record. The Chargers opened their campaign with a commanding 36-0 win over Stonewall Jackson High School—a statement that set the tone for a promising year.
“Our guys have shown tremendous grit and improvement every week,” said Phillips, known for his football intelligence and ability to adapt on the fly.
“We’re focused on what’s ahead.”
While Bath County endured a tough 50-0 loss at Buffalo Gap in week two, they bounced back with a 53-22 victory in Tygarts Valley, West Virginia. The team went on to record a decisive 42-0 home win against Hancock, Maryland, before falling 33-12 to Pendleton County, West Virginia. Their recent 37-18 triumph over Eastern Montgomery marked the start of their Pioneer District schedule on a winning note. Star running back Ethan Bryant has been a focal point for the Chargers’ offense, consistently finding daylight thanks to the stellar play of the team’s offensive line. Starting quarterback Hunter Kirby, in his first year under center, has displayed poise both in the pocket and on the move, taking advantage of the protection provided by his big dawgs up front and opening opportunities for Bath County’s sure-handed receivers like Walker Randozzo.
“Our offensive and defensive lines have worked hard to create the kind of balance we need,” Coach Plecker shared.
“Our backfield guys benefit from the effort made in the trenches on every snap.”
The Craig County Rockets have constructed a perfect record so far this season, dominating their opponents with a combination of explosive offense and stifling defense. Their campaign began with a 48-0 rout over Montcalm, followed by lopsided wins against Bland County (56-0), and a 56-8 third-week victory. The team faced its first real test in a 35-28 shootout with Twin Springs but emerged victorious. Notably, the Rockets also notched a 54-0 shutout against Stonewall Jackson and a 44-6 win over Eastern Montgomery, common opponents with Bath County.
Carter Calfee has established himself as one of the Rockets’ premier threats, posting over 200 rushing yards and four touchdowns in the Rockets’ recent win over Eastern Montgomery. Teammates Noah Paxton and Caleb Cregger have also stepped up, delivering crucial touchdowns in key games to keep Craig County’s perfect season alive. Head coach Jimmy Fisher’s offensive and defensive schemes have been praised by players and opposing coaches alike, both sides coaches know Friday’s matchup is a true test for the teams.
“Craig County is playing some of the best football I’ve seen in many years,” Jamie Tuning shared.
“They’re disciplined, physical, and have a lot of playmakers on both sides of the ball.”
Friday’s game promises to be a showdown of strengths. Craig County leans on a run-heavy offense, which will challenge a Bath County defensive front that has built its reputation on occupying the backfield and disrupting plays before they develop. The Chargers’ linebackers and secondary have shown ferocity in flying to the ball, gearing up for a heavy dose of the Rockets’ ground attack.
Meanwhile, the Chargers’ offense, with Bryant and Kirby at the helm, will look to test a Craig County defensive unit that has pitched several shutouts but has been challenged in high-scoring tilts. District playoff Implications loom large with both teams hoping to notch a statement win.
Friday night’s outcome could be pivotal in determining the Pioneer District’s hierarchy heading into the playoffs. A victory for Bath County would instantly vault the Chargers into the title conversation, while a win for Craig County would further cement their status as the district’s team to beat. Area fans are encouraged to come out to Carl F. Williams Field and support their Chargers in what is shaping up to be a season-defining contest.
Kickoff is set for Friday at 7:00 p.m.
