By Thomas Grant Jr.
Momentum can be an ‘X-Factor’ for a team entering the post-season.
For Chapin, last Friday’s 35-34 win over White Knoll could not have occurred at a better time. The Eagles had dropped five straight games and were in danger of finishing with a losing record after a 4-0 start.
Instead, they clinched a first-round home game under first-year head coach Ryan Cole in the newly formed Class 5A Division II playoffs. Chapin will play host to Goose Creek at Cecil Woolbright Field in the first-ever meeting between the two schools.
The winner travels to top seed Irmo for the second round.
Both Chapin and Goose Creek finished 5-5 on the season and lost to undefeated Summerville. While the Eagles enter the playoffs carrying winning momentum, the Gators have dropped two straight games.
In the comeback win over the Timberwolves, the Eagles rallied from a 21-7 deficit with 21 straight points.
Anthony Turnbow scored two of his three touchdowns in offense, defense, and special teams in succession. He caught a 40-yard touchdown pass from senior Brady Albro and then returned an interception of Landon Sharpe 15 yards for a score to tie the game.
Gavin Stam’s touchdown down gave Chapin the lead, only for White Knoll to answer with a game-tying scoring drive.
The game was then dominated by special team plays. Turnbow once again scored from 76 yards, but this time it was on the kickoff return.
Shrine Bowl selection Devon Geronomi proceeded to return the favor with a kickoff return touchdown of his own. But the Timberwolves’ PAT attempt hit off the uprights.
Chapin got the ball back and converted a fourth down to run out the clock.
COMPETITIVE CHEER
Defending Class 5A champion Chapin participated in the Division II state qualifier Tuesday at Spring Valley High School.
This is the first year for the separate divisions in Class 5A. Over the past four seasons, the Lady Eagles and Lexington, which will compete in Division I, took turns as classification champions.
In Class 3A, Mid-Carolina placed second behind Palmetto at the qualifier held this past Saturday.
The state finals are set for Nov. 23 at Colonial Life Arena
Photo by Edward Walker/Chapin Eagle Club
