North advances in 2AA playoffs

{Photo Highlights: Brook Maners/ Davidson Local}

North Davidson jumped out to a dominating lead quickly on Oak Grove in the second round of the 2aa playoffs at Palmer Field. It was 28-0 early in the second quarter thanks to 3 turnovers and 2 pick sixes by the Knights. The tide changed when #14 Alex Naylor returned the first interception on a ball slipped through the hands of the Oak Grove receiver.

Oak Grove shows solidarity before kick-off {Brooke Maners/Davidson Local}

The Grizzlies managed to score a touchdown before half and trail 28-7. Momentum turned quickly as the Grizzlies began to claw their way back into it in the second half. What once looked to be a blowout all the sudden became a bitter fight. The Knights had a chance to put the game away but a couple of field goal blocks by the Grizzlies kept them clinging to life. Defensively in the second half Oak Grove kept making stops. #63 Hunter Grieser made several big plays for the Grizzlies. Including a key third down stop late to give them a chance. #9 Aiden Shewcow exploded in the second half highlighted with an 83 yard touchdown run.

In the end Oak Grove couldn't quite overcome the Knights big first half and North Davidson went on to advance to round 3 of the playoffs by a score of 34-23. Sportsmanship concluded at the end of the game as #5 Kaleb Craven was greeted by several Knights players and coaches showing their support in such a difficult time for the young man that lost his father in a car crash a week ago.

The Black Knights will host Salisbury for the semi-final matchup on Friday, April 30th at 7:30pm.

North Davidson players and head coach Brian Flynn celebrates victory, but spend time paying respect, and showing love to opposing OG player Khaleb Craven, who lost his father in a tragic car wreck last week. {Brook Maners/Davidson Local}