Topsail snaps 14-Game losing streak with win over rival Dixon
HAMPSTEAD, NC (WWAY) — The Topsail Pirates are starting the 2026 season with a win after snapping a 14-game losing streak, that dates back to 2024, Thursday night.
The Pirates entered the game looking for redemption after losing to Dixon 42-40 in overtime in Week 1 last season.
Topsail took a 13-8 lead into the second half before the offense added to the advantage.
Luca Van Der Lee broke loose up the middle for a big gain, shedding several tackles along the way.
Later, Kyle Albert made a defender miss before punching the ball into the end zone for his third touchdown of the night.
Dixon tried to mount a comeback in the fourth quarter, including a few chunk plays that put the Bulldogs in position to score.
But, Topsail’s defense came up with a big play when Dixon faced fourth down in the red zone. A pass was tipped in the end zone, and Roman Long came down with his second interception of the game to help seal the victory.
The win was the first for new Topsail head coach Terry Albert.
“I feel good, it’s nice to get into the win column. But we were sloppy, made a lot of mental mistakes.”
“I think this is a game that in the past they probably would’ve lost,” Albert said. “We made some mistakes early. Got down early, they went up 8-0. Got behind the chains a few times. Needed someone to make a play. We had a couple kids step up and make a play.”
Albert said the Pirates continued to fight throughout the game.
“I think the kids all night just kept fighting, stayed within themselves, even when we got behind the chains a little bit,” he said.
After a 14-game losing streak, Topsail has flipped the script, and will look to make it two straight wins next week when the Pirates host Croatan.
