Ashley rallies past E.E. Smith 17-12 for first home win of season

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — The Ashley High School Football team overcame an early deficit Friday night to defeat E.E. Smith 17-12 in its first home game of the season.

The Golden Bulls of Fayetteville struck first in the opening quarter, taking an early lead when Aiden Washington rushed into the end zone for the game’s first touchdown.

Ashley struggled to find its footing early, but the Screaming Eagles turned the game around in the second quarter.

Jahmeer Damon broke free on a run, dodging several E.E. Smith defenders on his way to the end zone to put Ashley on the scoreboard.

Quarterback Raleigh Sutton then powered through the defense for another touchdown, bringing the Screaming Eagles even with the Golden Bulls.

With the game still within reach late, Ashley relied on its special teams to finish the job. Bodey Porter connected on a field goal to give the Screaming Eagles a 17-12 lead.

Ashley held on from there to secure the victory and improve to 2-0 on the season.

The win also gave coach Purzitzа a place in Ashley history. He became the first head coach to begin his career with the Screaming Eagles with a 2-0 record.

Ashley will look to make it three straight wins when it travels to Laurinburg to face the Scotland Scots in its next game.