Croatan rallies past Topsail 40-28

HAMPSTEAD, NC (WWAY) — Topsail fell to Croatan 40-28 after the Cougars rallied from an early deficit Friday night.

Croatan struck first, taking a 7-0 lead in the opening quarter.

Topsail answered on its next possession. Quarterback Tyler Vickers connected with Tyler Salcido on a deep touchdown pass, tying the game at 7-7.

Croatan regained the lead when quarterback Kannon McBride scored on a short touchdown run. The extra point put the Cougars ahead 14-7.

Topsail responded again, with Vickers handing the ball to Kyle Albert. Albert broke free for a touchdown to tie the game at 14-14. The freshman running back has made a lot of plays through the first two weeks.

Croatan later moved ahead 16-14 after a safety and added to its lead with a field goal, making it 19-14.

Topsail answered with another touchdown from Albert on a short run, putting the Pirates ahead 20-19.

The Pirates then went for two, with Vickers keeping the ball on a fake and running into the end zone to give Topsail a 22-19 lead heading into halftime.

Croatan took control after the break, outscoring Topsail the rest of the way and completing the comeback.

The Cougars went on to win 40-28.