The Ledger

By Becky Holland

COCHRAN — Bleckley County overcame a lengthy first-quarter lightning delay and broke a 6-6 tie late in the second quarter to take a 13-6 lead over Cook into halftime Friday night.

The Royals struck first when Zyion Love scored on a 5-yard run with about nine minutes remaining in the opening quarter. The extra-point attempt was unsuccessful, giving Bleckley County a 6-0 lead.

Cook responded late in the quarter. Jaquaz Sharpe broke free for a 35-yard touchdown run with approximately two minutes remaining. Cook also missed the extra point, leaving the game tied at 6.

Moments later, lightning brought play to a halt. The delay was announced shortly after 8 p.m., and the teams did not return to the field to begin warming up until after 9:15 p.m.

When play resumed, the first quarter eventually ended with the teams still tied at 6.

Defense controlled much of the second quarter. Jamir Thompson recorded a tackle for loss for Bleckley County early in the period, while Cook’s defense recorded multiple sacks as the teams traded punts.

The Royals began putting together a drive late in the half, with Kix Foskey helping move the chains. Bleckley County eventually worked its way inside the Cook 10-yard line.

With approximately 30 seconds remaining before halftime, quarterback Brody Fleming connected with Foskey on a 3-yard touchdown pass, putting the Royals ahead 12-6.

Dylan Lamb added the extra point to make it 13-6.

Bleckley County’s defense then created one more opportunity before the break, recovering a Cook fumble at the Cook 15-yard line. The Royals attempted a field goal before time expired, but the kick was unsuccessful.

Bleckley County took a 13-6 advantage into halftime.

Both teams entered Friday night’s non-region matchup with 1-0 records.

The Ledger will update this story when the final score and additional game information become available.