It was a tough week opening week for Tippah County Football teams as Ripley lost a heartbreaker to Water Valley, Scott’s Hill trumped Walnut and Northpoint Christian took out Falkner.
Water Valley 14, Ripley 13
Ripley got a tremendous defensive effort and a stellar game from standout running back Jamal Brooks but three turnovers ultimately led to defeat for the Tigers against the defending 3A state champion Water Valley Blue Devils.
After a scoreless first quarter, Brooks scored from 7 yards out in the 2nd quarter to open the 2019 season’s scoring for the Tigers. The Tigers carried that 7-0 lead into halftime with several big stops from Dy’Quez Edgeston and Shaundell Edgeston leading the defense.
The Blue Devils got on board with a scoop and score fumble recovery early in the 3rd quarter to even the score. The Tigers regained the lead after a Tristan Vandiver to Sentavius Hunt 29 yard pitch and catch led to a 1 yard Brooks touchdown run. The extra point was blocked, proving crucial as Water Valley got a touchdown catch on 4th down in the 4th quarter with the extra point ultimately sealing the game.
Ripley is back in action Friday against Kossuth.
Scott’s Hill 41, Walnut 19
Walnut travelled to Scott’s Hill (TN) and jumped out to a 6-0 first quarter lead behind a TJ Colom 35 yard touchdown reception.
Scott’s Hill put up 27 points in the second quarter and Walnut never got closer than touchdown deficit the rest of the game.
Walnut’s Brandon Shields had a big game at WR, going for 86 yards and a TD. Chase Rogers caught a touchdown pass. Cade Hunt went for 187 passing yards and 3 touchdowns for the Wildcats.
The Eagles were not able to get anything going against Northpoint Christian on Friday, falling behind 20-0 after one quarter of play and 34-0 at halftime.
Falkner and Walnut both look to forget this past Friday and look ahead to this week’s Joe Bowl, scheduled for Friday at Falkner.
