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After the football team’s bus broke down on the interstate, Parry McCluer High School overcame the delay to emerge victorious last Friday with a convincing 22-7 win over Fort Chiswell in Max Meadows.
The Blues’ bus broke down on Interstate 81, turning a one hour and 50-minute trip into a three-hour ordeal, but head coach Jeremiah Brockenbrough commended his players for how they handled the delay.
“We had a lot of distractions, but the way the kids responded was unbelievable Friday night,” Brockenbrough said. “To overcome that kind of adversity.”
This game held significance for PM (4-1) after the Fighting Blues’ road loss to James River three weeks ago. Brockenbrough highlighted the pivotal role played by his team’s defense, which limited the Pioneers (3-2) to just 104 yards of total offense.
Fort Chiswell also had just seven first downs the entire game. Parker Camden secured an interception, adding to PM’s defensive prowess.
Brockenbrough acknowledged the defensive performances of Cole Chittum, Braden Conley and Jacob Shafer. “Those kids are playing at a high level right now,” the PM coach said.
On the offensive front, PM produced 305 yards of total offense. The Fighting Blues held the ball for 26 minutes, rushed for 171 yards and threw for an additional 128 yards.
Brockenbrough praised Landon Catlett, who hauled in two crucial touchdown receptions – a 20-yarder and a 40-yarder. Catlett had four combined catches for 88 yards.
The PM coach also commended quarterback Nathan Glass for his precision in passing, as well as Jackson Brockenbrough’s contribution of 60 rushing yards on 16 carries.
PM’s JJ Jones had another substantial game with 10 carries for 69 yards and one catch for 40 yards.
The game was characterized by its physicality. It was a cleanly played contest, with only six penalties.
“At the end of the game, we put a seven-and-ahalf- minute drive together to seal the deal,” said coach Brockenbrough.
Brockenbrough also expressed deep appreciation for the dedicated fans who traveled three hours to support the team, filling the bleachers and creating an electric atmosphere despite the non-district nature of the game. He said, “Our bleachers were packed Friday night, and I’d just like to say I appreciate the fans; I hope they traveled well Friday night.”
Looking ahead, PM faces another formidable opponent when the Blues travel to Narrows for the Pioneer District opener on Friday. Both teams enter the matchup at 4-1 overall.
Coach Brockenbrough emphasized the significance of the upcoming matchup, saying, “Two good football programs, a lot of history there. Friday night will come down to X’s and O’s and who wants it the most.”
The Blues have certainly made a statement with the victory over Fort Chiswell. Under the guidance of Brockenbrough, they look forward to their next challenge against Narrows. Friday’s kickoff is set for 7 p.m.
