First Coast HS- You’d have to go back over ten years the last time Highlands defeated Matthew Gilbert Middle School. However last week history was made, as the Highlands Wildcats defeated the Gilbert Panthers 14-8. Highlands came into the game undefeated at 4-0 while Gilbert road into the game undefeated as well. The game made for a clash of the titans, and it did not disappoint.
Jones with the pick in the end zone Gilbert and Highlands still scoreless 2nd qtr #1 vs. #2 Undefeated! pic.twitter.com/mfBDpgF8BH
— Duval Sports ™️ (@DuvalSports) October 16, 2018
Both teams saw minimal success on offense to start the game, as they attempted to feel each other out like prize fighters. The first blow was dealt by Gilbert late in the 1st quarter, who secured an interception. The Panther’s Jaykob Jones made a beautiful interception in the end zone, stalling a promising Highlands drive.
Jaykob Jones with the interception for Gilbert! Score 0-0 vs Highlands pic.twitter.com/UFb4HlD6PW
— Duval Sports ™️ (@DuvalSports) October 16, 2018
However Gilbert was unable to do much on offense as the Highlands defense stuffed the run game. Highlands was led by #56 Lamarion Ogletree who had two sacks in the game. The next blow would come from Highlands courtesy of #3 De’shy Beafort. Gilbert was forced to punt and Beafort had a big punt return to set up Highlands deep in Panther territory. #7 Marcus Solomon would finish off the short drive with a touchdown run and the Wildcats led 6-0. The scoreboard would read 8-0 for the remainder of the first half, however Highlands would actually lead 6-0.
#3 De’shy Beafort with a beautiful punt return for Highlands setting up the TD by #7 Marcus Solomon Highlands leads 8-0 over Gilbert! pic.twitter.com/S0aZsgAEx2
— Duval Sports ™️ (@DuvalSports) October 16, 2018
Just like a prize fighter, Gilbert wouldn’t be phased long by their opponent’s touchdown. Running-back Tomas Smith returned a big blow for Gilbert when he bust a long touchdown run for an apparent score for the Panthers. However Smith was called for a unsportsmanlike conduct penalty for holding a finger in the air as he coasted to the end zone. The penalty took six points off the board, and a few plays later Solomon intercepted a pass for Highlands to close out the first half with a 6-0 lead.
In the second half, Gilbert came out roaring. The running game powered forward gaining first downs after first downs. After a 20 yard play on first down, running-back Justin Bradley scored on a 25 yd scamper around the left end while tiptoeing down the sidelines. The 2-point conversion was good and Gilbert led 8-6 in the 3rd quarter.
Gilbert holds on 4th down stopping Highlands they take over at their own 10yd line 8-8 Tied 6:21 4th pic.twitter.com/u8b04L8ZCu
— Duval Sports ™️ (@DuvalSports) October 16, 2018
The defenses would stalemate in the 3rd quarter. #5 Clifton Richardson and #6 Treshawn Dunham were heavy hitters on defense for Gilbert. They held the high powered Wildcat offense to 0 points in two straight quarters. In the fourth quarter, Highlands had a great opportunity to score when Gilbert stuffed them on downs. Gilbert would take over on the Wildcats 10 yard line. Gilbert seemed to have a the perfect opportunity leading in a game with little time left, however disaster would strike. On the drive, Highlands would force a fumble and recover it deep in Gilbert territory. It wouldn’t take the Wildcats long to make the Panthers pay as #3 De’shy Beafort scored on a running back sweep. He would add the 2-point conversion to put his team up 14-8.
The interception seals it! Highlands with its first football win over Gilbert in over a decade! 16-8 Final! pic.twitter.com/Jxknbdh901
— Duval Sports ™️ (@DuvalSports) October 17, 2018
Leading 14-8, Gilbert would get the ball with plenty of time left, however couldn’t muster a drive against the speedy Highlands defense. In a desperation attempt to go down field on the pass, Highlands would secure the interception, to seal the improbable win for the Wildcats.
Coach Garvin leading Highlands to an undefeated season thus far after their 16-8 victory over Gilbert tonight! pic.twitter.com/vIrFixdB3o
— Duval Sports ™️ (@DuvalSports) October 17, 2018
Highlands in back to back weeks have defeated the back to back champions in Ribault (2017) and Gilbert (2016). They are leading the pack in the North division, and playing with extreme confidence. Said second year Head Coach Garvin, “Last year we went .500, and this year we have been able to learn together and play together, and the kids have worked hard all year to be successful”.
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