Big second quarter aids in Barons win

Published 8:57 am Thursday, September 7, 2023

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GATESVILLE – Gates County scored three touchdowns in the second quarter, snapping an 8-8 stalemate en route to a 42-16 victory over Manteo in non-conference football action here Friday night.

Jaden Parker led the way offensively for the Barons, rushing for 171 yards on just seven carries. He scored two long touchdowns on runs of 83 and 51 yards.

DaMari Cooper also cracked the 100-yard rushing barrier with 119 yards on 11 attempts. He scored one long touchdown on a 66-yard gallop.

Dorien Melton reeled off another long touchdown run, this one covering 61 yards.

A.J. Riddick added a 14-yard touchdown scamper.

Gates County’s defense also produced a score when Justin Powell forced a fumble, pick it up, and raced 60 yards to paydirt.

Dorien Melton (#6) heads towards the endzone on a 61-yard touchdown run, part of Gates County’s 42-16 win over Manteo at home on Friday, Sept. 1. Photo by Charles Revelle

Powell, Robert Baker, Alden Jordan, and DeShaun Parker each had six tackles to lead the Gates County defense.

Jordan and Calvin Harrell each had a quarterback sack.

With their second straight victory, Gates County improved to 2-1 overall with the win.

The Barons will make the short drive across the Dismal Swamp to play at Camden County on Friday, Sept. 8. Kickoff for this non-conference game is 7 p.m.

After a road test at Southside on Sept. 15, the Barons have an open date on their schedule on Sept. 22. Their next home game is Sept. 29 vs. conference foe Martin County.