A recent football game between Newberry Academy and Oaktown Academy on Friday, August 28, was declared a no contest after severe thunderstorms and lightning forced an early suspension of play. The game, Newberry Academy’s home opener, was halted in the second quarter with 4:55 remaining before halftime, preventing a full contest.
Newberry Academy, entering the game with a 1-0 record, aimed to continue its early season momentum. Oaktown Academy, with an 0-1 record, sought to recover from a week one loss. The Eagles’ offense started strong, driving into Oaktown’s territory. Despite an early fumble on a fourth-down attempt, the Newberry Academy defense quickly forced a three-and-out.
Junior running back Javon Conway scored the first touchdown for Newberry Academy with an 18-yard run, followed by a one-yard punch-in and a two-point conversion, giving the Eagles an 8-0 lead. Oaktown Academy responded with a long passing touchdown, but failed their two-point conversion, making the score 8-6. Newberry Academy experienced another fumble late in the first quarter, returning possession to Oaktown.
In the second quarter, Oaktown Academy took the lead with another long touchdown pass and a successful two-point conversion, pushing the score to 14-8. Conway broke free for a 60-yard run but fumbled at the goal line. Despite Newberry Academy’s protests for a horse collar tackle, officials allowed the play to stand. Defensive end Corban Caudill was a key player for the Eagles, recording a tackle for loss and a sack on the same drive, contributing to three sacks and four tackles for loss before the game was suspended.
Newberry Academy reclaimed the lead with a 54-yard touchdown reception and a two-point conversion, making it 16-14. Shortly after, the weather deteriorated, leading to a 30-minute delay. Play resumed briefly, with Oaktown Academy scoring another long passing touchdown to take a 20-16 lead. The game was then suspended again and ultimately called off due to the continuing severe weather. Since it was a non-conference game, it will not be rescheduled.
Conway had already accumulated over 100 rushing yards and a touchdown before the game was called. Newberry Academy is now focusing on an upcoming road game against Richard Winn Academy, scheduled for Friday, September 4, with kickoff at 7:30 p.m.
