The Happy Valley Warriors marked the inauguration of their new artificial turf field with a resounding victory over the Cloudland Highlanders, ending the game with a score of 55-20. This dominant performance not only showcased the Warriors’ offensive capabilities but also highlighted the potential of what could be a formidable season under the guidance of Coach Jason Jarrett.
The Warriors wasted no time asserting their dominance, with Lane Parker scoring an impressive 65-yard touchdown run shortly after kick-off. This swift opening drive set the tone for the match, giving Happy Valley an early 6-0 lead. The Highlanders responded with a 58-yard touchdown reception from Walker Gouge, following a play-action pass by Bryce Birchfield, bringing the score to 6-6.
Despite the brief setback, the Warriors regained control, pushing down the field with a series of significant gains. Keelin Releford capped off a steady drive with a 20-yard scoring run, bouncing through defenders to find the end zone. The Warriors continued to dominate, with Parker intercepting a pass and then sprinting for over 50 yards for another touchdown, extending their lead to 20-6.
The first half saw the Warriors showcase an overwhelming offense, with Releford scoring two additional touchdowns. Parker’s second interception, which he returned 54 yards for another score, further inflated the lead to 41-6 before halftime. A final 49-yard touchdown pass from Gabe McDougald to Releford brought the score to 55-6 as the teams headed into the locker rooms.
In the second half, the Highlanders attempted to rally. Gavyn Shell scored on a 10-yard run, and Birchfield added a 2-yard keeper, narrowing the gap to 55-20. Shell led Cloudland with 79 rushing yards, but overall, the team struggled to match Happy Valley’s offensive prowess.
The Warriors concluded the game with nearly 400 yards of total offense, with Parker leading the charge at 120 yards from just three carries. Releford also had a notable performance, contributing 83 yards on the ground.
Coach Jarrett expressed satisfaction not only with the team’s performance but also with the new facility. “Now, with the installation of our artificial turf, I truly believe we carry the distinction of the best and most beautiful artificial turf in the area,” he stated. He emphasized the importance of the upgrades provided by the Carter County School System, calling the new facility “absolutely gorgeous.”
Happy Valley now stands at a record of 2-0 and will travel to Claiborne for their next match. Meanwhile, Cloudland will enjoy a bye week before facing Hancock County on September 12, 2023. The Warriors’ impressive display on their new turf suggests they will be a team to watch in Region 2 as the season unfolds.