In a close and competitive game, it was a crucial defensive play that shifted the momentum in favor of (23) Independence, leading to their surprise 34-28 win against (7) East Forsyth.

The Eagles were advancing towards the Patriots’ 5-yard line, ready to regain the lead in the middle of the third quarter.

Then, they made a mistake.

Independence gained possession of the uncontrolled ball and advanced it 95 yards in the opposite direction for a pivotal point. Rather than being behind, the Patriots had unexpectedly increased their advantage to 27-14.

After the significant turnover, East Forsyth did not leave without a fight. Quarterback Bryce Baker, who performed well, quickly led the Eagles on a 75-yard drive resulting in a touchdown, bringing the score within 6 points entering the fourth quarter.

However, that was the closest they could come.

Independence made a crucial drive towards the end to secure their victory. Sophomore running back Jayden Jones refused to give up and bulldozed his way into the end zone, carrying multiple Eagles defenders with him, and increasing the score to 34-21.

East Forsyth had a chance to score late with a touchdown pass from Baker, but they were unable to retrieve the onside kick and ran out of time.

The Eagles’ season ended with a disappointing loss, as they concluded with a record of 10-2.

Next week, the Patriots will be back on the road to secure their spot in the regional semi-finals. They will be traveling to Boone to face off against Watauga on Friday night.

Source: highschoolot.com