The Catawba Ridge High School defense pitched a near-shutout Friday night, allowing just a single field goal as the Copperheads defeated cross-town rival Fort Mill High 13-3 in a hard-fought, low-scoring affair.
The game was a punting battle through the first three quarters, defined by stout defensive play and timely kicking. Copperhead kicker Josh Crick provided all of the offense early, converting a 25-yard field goal in the first quarter and a 33-yarder just before halftime to send Catawba Ridge into the locker room with a slim 6-0 lead.
The third quarter proved equally frustrating for both offenses, featuring multiple punts and a missed field goal attempt by Catawba Ridge.
Fort Mill finally broke through the defensive stalemate midway through the fourth quarter. Kicker Noah Hardy connected on a booming 47-yard field goal to cut the Catawba Ridge lead in half, 6-3, with just under seven minutes remaining in the contest.
However, Catawba Ridge responded immediately with the game’s first and only touchdown drive. Running back Boston Halpin punched the ball into the end zone from 2 yards out with two minutes left to give the Copperheads a decisive 12-3 advantage. The successful point-after attempt pushed the final margin to 13-3.
The Catawba Ridge defense sealed the victory moments later when Ian Babcock intercepted a Fort Mill pass, ensuring the home team could not mount a final-minute comeback. The victory moves Catawba Ridge to a 13-3 final score, highlighting a dominant performance by the special teams and defense.
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