Corvian Community Upsets Mount Airy and Advances to Semifinals
In a thrilling night in Charlotte, football fans witnessed the end of the state’s longest winning streak on Friday. Corvian Community knocked off the two-time defending champions, Mount Airy, with a score of 14-7, advancing to the Class 1A football state semifinals.
The Corvian Cardinals (14-0) ended Mount Airy’s impressive 43-game unbeaten run, showcasing strong defensive play and strategic execution. Corvian struck first with an A.J. Jackson touchdown pass with just three minutes left in the first quarter. However, their attempts to increase the lead failed in the second quarter when Mount Airy (13-1) stopped them on downs at the Granite Bears’ 25-yard line.
Mount Airy managed to tie the game early in the second half after blocking a Corvian punt and scoring on a short run, making it 7-7. The momentum shifted back to Corvian late in the third quarter when they took over at the Mount Airy 46-yard line. The Cardinals drove the distance for another touchdown with ten minutes remaining, pushing the score to 14-7.
Mount Airy fought hard, driving to the Corvian 10 in the last moments, but a fumble recovery by Corvian sealed their victory. Corvian Community will now face Mountain Heritage next week for the 1A West regional championship.
In Class 2A action, Monroe also celebrated a significant victory, defeating Shelby 41-23. Quarterback Kaegan Chambers played a pivotal role, scoring two long rushing touchdowns while completing two touchdown passes.
Shelby started strong, taking an initial lead, but Monroe quickly rallied to tie the game and then pull ahead, eventually securing their place in the semifinals against Brevard next Friday. Brevard dominated Forest Hills, winning 57-14, and earned their spot in the next round as well. On the other side of the field, North Lincoln fought fiercely but lost to defending champion Hickory 49-46, ending their impressive season.
Fans can look forward to more exciting matchups next week, as teams battle for a chance at the state championship. The playoffs are heating up, and every game holds the promise of thrilling competition.
