Aycock defense blanks Rosewood for fifth straight rivalry win

Game Reported by KeKe Williams and Chance Scott

C.B. Aycock’s defense decided the 45th edition of the Little River Rivalry, forcing at least four turnovers and turning two into touchdowns Thursday in a 20-0 win over Rosewood.

The Golden Falcons extended their winning streak in the series to five games, using a defensive score from Devin Lewis and a 23-yard receiving touchdown from Lewis to pull away. Lewis’ pick-six was the turning point as Aycock held Rosewood scoreless despite several Eagles drives that reached promising situations.

C.B. Aycock led 7-0 after the first quarter and 14-0 at halftime. The Golden Falcons remained in front 14-0 after a scoreless third quarter before closing out the shutout with six more points in the fourth.

“Shoutout means our defense played really well. Couple of drives we didn't finish. The goal is always to win so alot to build on to next week,” C.B. Aycock coach Thomas Zietlow said.

Rosewood hurt itself with early flags after the play and struggled to finish drives. Aldinio Previl led the Eagles on the ground with 90 rushing yards, but Rosewood could not turn those drives into points.

“We fought tooth and nail. This game could have been 7-0, we left some plays on offense that would have gave us a chance. Im proud of my guys,” Rosewood coach John Smith said.

Lewis provided Aycock’s biggest plays of the night, scoring on defense and offense in the rivalry win.

“It was really big for me becasue I have always been small and to do that and show people made me feel good,” Lewis said.

The game was played on a Thursday instead of the usual Friday night setting, but Aycock still controlled the rivalry matchup through defense and field position. Rosewood will face North Duplin next, while C.B. Aycock will play Eastern Wayne.