New Hanover falls to Carolina Forest 41-21 after early lead

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. — New Hanover jumped out to an early lead Friday night, but Carolina Forest rallied to defeat the Wildcats 41-21.

New Hanover took advantage of good field position after Carolina Forest went three-and-out. In the red zone, quarterback Ronan Brady connected with wide receiver Skylar Barnett for a touchdown to put the Wildcats on the board first.

Carolina Forest trailed by 14 late in the first quarter before Jaden Hogg broke to the outside for a touchdown run, cutting into New Hanover’s lead. The Wildcats still held an eight-point advantage after the opening quarter.

The Panthers continued to close the gap in the second quarter. Quarterback Matthew Keller launched a pass to wide receiver Brady McDowell for a 45-yard completion, bringing Carolina Forest within two.

Carolina Forest took control from there and pulled away for a 41-21 win over New Hanover.