Pilots win county rivalry

The Fulton County Pilots took a 56-0 halftime lead, and cruised to a 70-0 win over Fulton City last Friday night in Hickman.

The Pilots used a big effort from running back Caleb Kimble, who rushed for 209 yards and five touchdowns.

Kimble scored on runs of 86, 42, 33, 20 and 18 yards, and was complimented by teammate George Scott, who caught touchdown passes of 15 and 11 yards.

“They were ready to play,” said coach James Bridges. “We had two weeks off, and they came out a little over pumped up, but they settled down and started playing. Despite the start, the score is going to show that they did excellent. We executed of offense, we executed on defense, special teams. I am really proud of them. Our guys are playing well.”

The Pilots took a 16-0 lead at the end of the first quarter, then scored five touchdowns in the second quarter.

The Fulton County defense scored one touchdown in the game in the third quarter, when Chrisshawn Gordon recovered a Bulldog fumble in the endzone.

Fulton City had trouble establishing any offense in the game, and finished with a negative 54-yards on the night.

Bulldogs coach Harold “Flip” Hutcherson said the team is building and making strides week-by-week.

“They are not going to quit. They were hesitant to come out, but I told them that if you love the game, come on out. I love this game and that is what I am teaching them now. I am seeing the fight and dedication. From the first week until now, they are not as tired as they were. We are making strides. Despite what the score was out here, the guys didn’t quit and didn’t quit playing.”

Coach Hutcherson said he hopes the dedication of the current team inspires others to be a part of the program in the future.

“Our goal this year is to compete. As long as we can do that, I am happy. I am hoping that these guys inspire others to play. I hope we have several playing next season. Right now, this team only has one senior. So we are looking at everybody coming back with experience, and hope they bring the others that have been hesitant. All we can do is build. We are hoping that Mancel (Elam–Fulton City principal) can help us. He has a good story to share with the kids, and we want to use it.”

The Pilots are now 2-0 on the year, and will travel back into Tennessee to take on 0-3 Stewart County, while 0-3 Fulton City will have their home opener Sept. 7 when they play host to Webster County.