Union Pines (2-0, 0-0), looking for revenge from last year’s one-point loss to Northwood, put on a defensive masterclass in its 35-0 win over the Chargers (0-2, 0-0) Friday.
The Vikings intercepted the Chargers seven times thanks to constant pressure from its defensive line and a solid display of ball skills in the secondary.
Sophomore defensive back Demarie Johnson, junior defensive back Jonah Thienel and senior defensive back Harley Moyer came away with two picks each. Johnson and Thienel each took an interception to the house. Thienel’s return of over 50 yards gave Union Pines a 14-0 lead right before halftime, and Johnson’s return near the Vikings’ sideline put the final score on the board at the end of the fourth quarter.
Sophomore linebacker Josiah Sandler ended the Chargers’ first possession by picking off junior quarterback Grayson Cox at Northwood’s own three yard line.
That interception set up the first of three scores from senior running back Jeremiah Carraway, who capitalized on the turnover with a 3-yard touchdown.
Carraway was difficult to contain as he rushed for 161 yards on just 11 carries. His 69-yard touchdown in the final minutes of the third quarter put the Vikings up, 28-0.
Earlier in the quarter, Carraway found the endzone on a 17-yard run up the middle to give Union Pines a 21-0 lead.
Despite the four first half interceptions, Northwood remained in striking distance in the first half.
With the help of a solid first half performance from sophomore Jordan Brim and senior AJ Rhone-Mason on the defensive line, the Chargers were able to disrupt some of Union Pines’ plays and take away its passing game.
Northwood ended the night with four tackles for loss, including a sack, but that wasn’t enough to stop the Vikings’ rushing attack in the final two quarters.
It also didn’t help the Chargers that their offense was only able to come away with 48 yards on the ground.
Union Pines moves to 2-0 on the season with two consecutive shut outs. The Vikings will host Western Harnett Friday at 7:30 p.m.
Northwood falls to 0-2 on the season, beginning conference play with a home game against North Moore Friday at 7 p.m.