Happy Valley used a quick start to open the 2024 season with a win over a county rival.
The Warriors scored 19 points in the opening 12 minutes – including a touchdown return on the opening kickoff – to take a 19-0 victory over Cloudland at Orr Field in Roan Mountain.
HV opened the game quickly as Lane Parker caught the opening kickoff and raced 78 yards for a touchdown. AJ Rangel added the extra point to give HV a 7-0 lead.
The Warrior defense continued to hold the momentum for HV as they forced Cloudland on a three-and-out. HV moved methodically and added to the lead when Aiden Paul scored on a three-yard run.
The Warriors pushed the lead to 19-0 late in the first as Paul scored on a one-yard run.
Cloudland looked to get something going with runs by Landon Barnette and Grayson Cole, but CHS was unable to capitalize on a 12-play drive. The Warriors moved the ball, but a fumble at the goal line ended the drive. From there, neither team was able to get on the board as HV held a 19-0 halftime advantage.
In the second half, the teams traded drives as neither team was able to get back in the endzone.
The fourth quarter saw Happy Valley able to hold the ball to secure the win as Cloudland was only able to run three offensive plays in the quarter.
Tyler Berry had 121 yards on 19 carries to lead Happy Valley, while Paul had 81 yards on six carries. Gabe McDougald finished with 42 yards.
Cloudland saw Grayson Cole have 56 yards on 11 carries. Landon Barnette had 47 yards on 10 carries.
HV outgained Cloudland 271-152 offensively.
Cloudland is set to travel to West Greene on Thursday for Week 2 action, while Happy Valley will make the trip to Unicoi County on Friday night.
For more photos, click here.