NEWBERRY — Newberry Academy celebrated homecoming Friday night, but was unable to celebrate a win as the visiting Sun Devils of Charleston Collegiate rolled over the home team 58-28.

The first half was very competitive, and the Eagles played some of their best football of the year. Newberry took their opening drive over 50 yards, culminating in a 32-yard touchdown run by Daniel Bannister. The extra point failed, giving Newberry a 6-0 lead.

The Sun Devils answered with a score of their own, a 56 yard touchdown pass. They converted a two-point play and took the lead 8-6. The Eagles took over on their own 35 and Tyrese Taylor connected with Dillon Morris on a 54 yard pass. The play set up another touchdown run by Bannister, who also converted the two point play, putting the Eagles back on top, 14-8.

On the ensuing drive for the Sun Devils, Newberry’s Hunter Taylor came up with a fumble recovery, setting up the offense in great field position. The Eagles were unable to take advantage and were forced to punt.

Charleston Collegiate scored on their next two possessions, taking a 22-14 lead into the second period. With five minutes remaining in the first half, the Sun Devils scored again pushing the lead to 30-14.

Newberry put together a scoring drive of their own, as Taylor connected with Tabb French for a 24 yard touchdown on fourth down. The converted two-point play made the score 30-22. Neither team threatened again in the first half.

The second half belonged to the Sun Devils, as they scored on their first two possessions, opening up a 46-22 lead early in the second half.

Newberry had a few bright spots, including a tremendous goal line stand late in the third period when the Sun Devils had first and goal from the three yard line.

The Eagles also added another touchdown late in the game. Bannister scored on a short run after a 43 yard pass from Taylor to York.

For the night, Bannister finished with nearly 100 yards of total offense, three touchdowns and double-digit tackles on defense. York amassed 170 yards of offense, including 120 yards receiving, and had seven tackles.

French reeled in a touchdown and had 47 yards receiving. Taylor finished with over 200 yards passing to at least four different receivers, including a touchdown. Hunter Taylor finished with a game high 12 tackles, and recovered three fumbles.

Newberry travels to Laurens on Friday to face Laurens Academy.

Tyrese Taylor runs against Charleston Collegiate.
https://www.newberryobserver.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/web1_Tyrese-Taylor-runs-against-Charlseton-Collegiate.jpgTyrese Taylor runs against Charleston Collegiate. Robert Cole | For The Newberry Observer

Tabb French hauls in a touchdown pass.
https://www.newberryobserver.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/web1_Tabb-French-hauls-in-touchdown-pass.jpgTabb French hauls in a touchdown pass. Robert Cole | For The Newberry Observer

By Robert Cole

For The Newberry Observer