The East Central Community College Warriors battled it out with the Holmes Community College Bulldogs, ultimately falling short with a final score of 24-17 on Thursday, September 14 in Goodman.
This loss brings the Warriors' season record to 1-1, while the Bulldogs continue their winning streak, now standing at 2-0.
The game kicked off with a flurry of action as Holmes swiftly marched down the field in just seven plays, covering 72 yards, scoring the opening touchdown a mere two minutes into the game.
The Warriors wasted no time in responding, orchestrating an impressive 15-play, 85-yard drive that consumed nearly 8 minutes of game time. The griding drive featured several significant plays, including an 11-yard rush by Devontae Causey and a 27-yard pass from Landon Sims to Causey.
Unfortunately, Sims had to leave the game due to an injury, but Chris Tucker stepped into the quarterback role and efficiently completed the drive. Tucker sealed the possession with a five-yard touchdown pass to Ethan Howard.
Scoring remained dormant for both teams until midway through the second quarter when Holmes managed to secure a 40-yard field goal with just 3 minutes and 27 seconds left in the half.
Once again, the Warriors answered Holmes' score with an impressive 75-yard drive. Tucker connected with Lawerence Armstrong on a 20-yard pass, positioning the Warriors in the red zone. On the very next play, Tucker threw his second touchdown pass to Howard, this time from 14 yards out. After Cade Mangum's successful extra point, ECCC led 14-10 going into halftime.
In the third quarter, the Warriors extended their lead to 17-10 when Mangum nailed a 25-yard field goal.
Holmes managed to tie the game at 17 apiece with just 8 minutes and 29 seconds left in the fourth quarter, thanks to a pick-six from Octavius Purnell. Following an ECCC punt on the subsequent possession, Holmes seized the lead with a 43-yard touchdown pass. With only 4 minutes and 42 seconds remaining in the contest, Holmes led 24-17. ECCC had one final drive, but it ultimately ended on downs, securing the victory for Holmes.
Despite forcing five turnovers, including three interceptions and two fumble recoveries, the Warriors could only convert these opportunities into three points.
Tucker finished the game with 124 passing yards, completing 10 of 23 attempts. Causey carried the ball 29 times for a total of 96 yards, while Daelyn Patton led the receiving corps with 48 yards. Howard's two touchdown catches were the sole touchdowns for the Warriors.
On the defensive side, the Warriors were led by Ka'daivion Smith, who registered 12 total tackles, including one sack. Jacobi Green contributed with 12 tackles, a forced fumble, and an interception, while Donnie Smith recorded six tackles, two sacks, and a forced fumble. Carson Graham and Korian Wilson also made big interceptions during the contest.
ECCC accumulated a total of 336 yards in the game, while Holmes racked up 544 yards.
Looking ahead, the Warriors will hit the road next week as they face off against the Hinds Community College Eagles in Raymond at 6:30 PM.