Sandhills_Sentinel

The Patriots had to go 140 miles for their season opener, but it was well worth it as Pinecrest soundly defeated E. A. Laney High School by a score of 35-12 on a hot and muggy night in Wilmington. Classes have not even started yet, but their off season program and strong coaching is paying off.

Senior Quarterback Greg Vansteen drops back for a pass in the first half. 

“I am really proud of the boys tonight,” said Coach Chris Metzger, now in his 12th year as head coach. “It was a great team effort. They really came up big.”

Senior Zaythan Hill had a huge night, breaking tackles all game, ending up with 3 running touchdowns. A close game at halftime, Junior Zyheem Kelly took the opening kick 90 yards for a touchdown to the cheers of more than a 100 parents and friends in the stands that made the long drive.

Senior Corey Patterson 

A win on the road is never easy, especially the first game of the year when the team is  just coming together. That is what makes this win so impressive.

“We have a ton of things to clean up, but it is nice to start the season with a win,” said Coach Metzger. “We came into a really hostile environment tonight. Laney is a good team. That is why I’m fired up for them.”

Coach Metzger, now in his 12th year as Pinecrest Head Coach

Coach Metzger’s team has another challenge as Pinecrest will play their next 2 games, both against conference opponents, on the road. Next week’s game will be at Gray’s Creek in Hope Hills, and the week after at Hillside in Durham. Their home opener will not be until September 7 when they face Charlotte’s Providence High School.

Feature Photo: Junior Zyheem Kelly breaks up a pass in the 4th quarter. 

Article and  photographs by John Patota, Sandhills Sentinel Sports Reporter.

Pinecrest Patriot’s cheerleaders

 

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