Panthers fall at Bulloch Academy

Published 5:00 pm Saturday, August 20, 2022

CHULA — Bulloch Academy brought experience into Tiftarea Academy’s opener Friday night and that experience made much difference in the final outcome, according to Panthers head coach Erik Soliday.

The Gators won in Statesboro, 42-20, pulling away every time Tiftarea got close.

“It was pretty tight early,” Soliday said. Bulloch scored a touchdown then had another on a defensive fumble return. Another turnover led to a short scoring drive for the hosts. Tiftarea cut into that lead, but “every time we got it close, it seemed like we gave a little bit and something would go backwards.”

Cubbie Crosson ran for a touchdown and Hershel Moore and Kam Brown each caught scoring passes, he said.

Youth was a factor. “You can tell we’re young,” Soliday said, but they’re improving, making more progress each time out on the field.

He said weather caused delays at Statesboro. Throughout the southern half of the state, lightning delayed starts and caused two area games to finish up Saturday.

Tiftarea will be home Friday to play Frederica Academy, also 0-1. The Knights were outscored at Brookwood in their opener, 41-12.