The defending Division 5 Regional Champions are back for more.
Deane Cheatham rushed for over 100 yards in the first half alone, and the Hanover Hawks took advantage of an inexperienced, overmatched Patrick Henry defense to cruise to an opening night 49-21 win over the Patriots, ruining the head coaching debut of Sam Hart.
Hanover scored touchdowns on their first five possessions, all coming on the ground. The lone PH score of the first half was also on the ground, thanks to a 45-yard TD run by fullback Josh Thomas, cutting the deficit at the time to 14-7. It was 35-7 by halftime.
Jay Waller opened his second season at quarterback with no interceptions, a touchdown pass in the second half, but also overthrew several open receivers. Hanover QB Sam Rogers, starting his second season and only a sophomore, didn't need to rely on the passing game, completing 3 of 6 passes for 52 yards.
There are many people who believe Hanover, winners of two of the past three Division 5 Regional Titles, may finally win the Capital District title, something they've never done, thanks to Varina and Highland Springs. After seeing them tonight, I share in that sentiment. If the offensive line and linebacking play of Hanover continues to improve on their impressive opening night performances, the Hawks will be a tough match for anyone in the Central Region.
Hanover now leads the overall series with Patrick Henry 5-4, winning their last five straight against the Patriots. PH has not won on opening night since a win over Hanover in 2006.
Patrick Henry must now regroup, especially on both the offensive and defensive lines, and get ready for a rough road test against another county team with Division 5 playoff hopes, the Atlee Raiders.
Listen for all the action next Friday, 9/17, at 6:30pm, on WHAN, 1430!
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