The Cartersville Purple Hurricanes (3-0) dominated the Hapeville Charter Hornets with a 24-0 victory on Friday night.
Cartersville struck quickly in a game with little first-half scoring. They opened with a swift drive, covering the field in 41 seconds, which Nate Russell finished with a 30-yard touchdown run.
After that opening drive, the Hornet defense tightened up, limiting Cartersville’s offensive efforts. However, Hapeville Charter’s offense struggled to gain momentum, rarely crossing midfield and failing to reach the end zone. Both defenses forced multiple three-and-outs, taking the game into halftime without further scoring.
In the third quarter, Cartersville’s offense made key adjustments, while their defense continued to stifle the Hornets. Baylon Long and Jacaiden Leonard each scored rushing touchdowns, extending Cartersville’s lead to 21-0. These scores were set up by long receptions from Brady Marchese, who brought the ball inside the 10-yard line on both occasions.
Following a fumble recovery by Cooper Melvin, Ramsey Rowell kicked a 40-yard field goal, securing Cartersville’s 24-0 shutout.
Next Friday, Cartersville will travel to Calhoun to face the Yellow Jackets, with kickoff at 7:30 p.m. Tune in to WBHF for pregame coverage starting at 6:00 p.m.