PITTSBORO — Seaforth’s comeback effort came up just short in its football season opener.
After being down 18-0 entering the final quarter, the Hawks, opening the season at home, fell to Westover, 18-16.
Early in the fourth quarter, Seaforth began to chip at the deficit with a 12-yard touchdown pass from sophomore quarterback Duncan Parker to sophomore receiver Max Hinchman.
The Hawks were able to move the ball down to five yard line in their next drive with the help of some penalties, but they settled for a 20-yard field goal from Travis Mann after failing to get in the end zone.
Following another big stop from its stout defense, Seaforth, now in the final minutes of the game, put together a long drive highlighted by a 33-yard completion to Hinchman and a 36-yard touchdown pass from Parker to junior receiver Patrick Miller, which brought the Hawks within two points.
However, with 21 seconds left, Seaforth couldn’t hold on to the ball in the ensuing onside kick, and Westover took knees to end the game.
Prior to the dramatic finish, both offenses struggled with turnovers and production.
Seaforth committed three turnovers, including a lost fumble, an interception and a muffed punt, while Westover also lost a fumble and threw an interception.
Westover junior linebacker Jamal Williams’ 13-yard pick six in the second quarter gave the Wolverines a boost on the scoreboard, putting them up 12-0 right before halftime.
Outside of that defensive score, Westover could only muster a 32-yard touchdown run from senior running back Nasir Wells in the second quarter and an 11-yard touchdown pass from sophomore quarterback Richard Vanderhost to junior receiver Tramell Hankins in the third quarter.
Wells was the highlight of Westover’s offense as he rushed for a team-high 99 yards on 14 carries.
Most of Seaforth’s offensive production came through the air as Parker threw for 144 yards and two touchdowns.
Seaforth is now 0-1 on the season and will host Southern Lee Friday at 7 p.m.