Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

By C.Y. Peters

Star Correspondent

On a cool fall evening at Unaka’s Goddard Field, the excitement of homecoming filled the air as fans gathered to cheer on the Rangers in a pivotal matchup against the Jellico Blue Devils. The night promised celebration, but it was Jellico that ultimately stole the show, securing a 42-24 victory over the home team.

Both teams struggled to find rhythm in the first quarter, leaving the score knotted at zero heading into the second. Unaka saw two promising drives halted by costly interceptions in the first half—one deep in Jellico territory on the 15-yard line and the other at the 1-yard line—dashing what could have been crucial scoring opportunities.

Jellico broke the deadlock early in the second quarter with a solid drive, putting the first points on the board. Moments later, in what appeared to be a broken play, the Blue Devils shocked the crowd with an 85-yard touchdown pass, extending their lead to 16-0. As halftime neared, Unaka’s Connor McKinney gave the Rangers a spark of hope, scoring on a powerful run with just nine seconds left, cutting Jellico’s lead to 16-8.

At halftime, homecoming royalty took center stage as Lauren Lund was crowned Homecoming Queen. Alongside her, Jayla Bush was named Senior Sweetheart, Lainee Barnett Junior Sweetheart, Giovanna Tanner Sophomore Sweetheart, and Brooklyn Campbell Freshman Sweetheart, adding a festive moment to an otherwise challenging night for Unaka.

The second half began with a strategic onside kick by Jellico, which they recovered. Just two plays later, the Blue Devils capitalized, scoring to make it 24-8. Unaka responded with determination, as McKinney broke loose for a 35-yard touchdown run four minutes later, bringing the score to 24-16.

However, Jellico’s offense was relentless. The Blue Devils scored twice more before Unaka’s Micah Gray found the end zone on a 26-yard pass with 4:17 remaining, sealing the Rangers’ final points of the night. Despite the effort, Jellico proved too strong, cruising to a 42-24 victory.

Unaka, now looking to regroup, will face the undefeated Happy Valley Warriors next Friday in what promises to be a tough road test. The Rangers will need to bring their best to avoid another disappointing night.

A breakdown of the game will be in the STAR’s Wednesday edition.