Article from Laieke Abebe. Photos from Bobby Williams
After a tough loss in its season opener, Spring Creek has rebounded nicely.
The Gators have now won back-to-back games after an 18-6 win over Bear Grass Charter Friday at the Swamp. Daniel Robinson’s squad equaled their season win total from last year with this victory.
“We knew they were physical,” Robinson said. “At halftime, we made some adjustments and it paid off in the second half. I don’t think I’ve ever seen a scoreless first half since I’ve been here, so it’s enjoyable to see the kids come together and get this win.”
Spring Creek (2-1) moved the ball on its first possession but had a touchdown called back for holding. Ultimately, the Gators would turn the ball over on downs, but the Gator defense responded well.
Bear Grass Charter had its chances as well, including its last drive before halftime. The Bears would get into Gator territory, but Tyrrek Grizzle came up with back-to-back sacks to keep Bear Grass off the board.
With the game scoreless going into the second half, the Gators began to seize control. They began with a big return by Damian Haney into Bears’ territory. Haney would also get the opening touchdown when Robert Strickland found him on a slant for a five-yard score.
On the ensuing possession, it was Haney making another big play as he picked off Brayden Taylor’s pass at the 25. From there, the Gators marched down the field and took time off the clock.
“I was just trying to make plays and do my best,” Haney said. “We stuck together and I wanted to do my part to help the team win.”
A 13-play, 75-yard drive was capped off when Strickland scored on a one-yard sneak to double Spring Creek’s lead. Running back Dylan Davidson had several key runs on that drive and throughout the evening.
“The offensive line blocked really well,” Davidson said. “An 18-wheeler could drive through those holes and they got more confident as the game went on.”
After Zach Cato recovered a fumble for the Gators on the next possession, the Gators found their way back to pay dirt. Strickland plunged in for a seven-yard rushing touchdown to make it a three-score game.
The Bears would get a touchdown with less than four minutes left, but it was too late. After losing big to Lakewood at home in week one, the Gators are now over the .500 mark.
“When we don’t turn the ball over, we’re capable of being successful,” Strickland said.” Dylan Davidson ran well for us and Damian Haney made some great catches. We adjusted well and got the job done tonight.”
Strickland finished the game with 92 rushing yards and two touchdowns. He also completed 4 passes for 20 yards and one touchdown. Davidson contributed 111 yards on the ground, while David Williams ended the game with 31 yards rushing.
Haney caught three passes for 22 yards and a touchdown. Haney also had three tackles and an interception. Grizzle had sack tackles and two sacks, while Corey Davis and Cate each had nine tackles.
Spring Creek will travel to face a high-scoring Hobbton team next Friday.
