Fairmont Edges West Bladen in Defensive Battle, 12-7

BLADENBORO, NC — Friday night’s matchup between West Bladen and Fairmont felt like old-school football…physical, gritty, and decided by just a few plays.

The Knights came up short, falling 12-7 at home, but the fight and foundation they’re building is on display.

West Bladen’s offense found success on the ground, grinding out 153 rushing yards on 37 carries.

Ahmarie White led the charge with 10 carries for 49 yards and the team’s lone touchdown. Sincere McKinley added 43 yards on 10 carries, and Isaiah Robinson chipped in 39 on 10 attempts as the Knights leaned on their backfield trio to move the chains.

Quarterback Devan Haire finished 3-for-10 through the air for 39 yards, connecting with Hunter Hester on a 29-yard pass and McKinley on another for 10 yards.

Hester also handled punting duties, booming a 55-yarder that flipped field position late in the game. Kicker Jonah Bryan stayed perfect on the night, converting his lone extra point attempt.

Defensively, West Bladen’s intensity kept the Knights in striking distance all night. Justin Spaulding and Isaiah Robinson each tallied 10 tackles and a sack apiece.

McKinley made his presence felt with seven tackles and an interception, while Demarie Gayle recovered a key fumble to give West Bladen a chance in the second half.

Keon Whittington added five tackles and an interception of his own, continuing his steady play in the secondary.

Fairmont managed 174 rushing yards on 36 carries, with Jamarion Brown and Jeremiah Morris finding the end zone once each.

Quarterback Demarius Jones threw for 81 yards but was intercepted twice by the Knights’ defense.

Despite the loss, the tone after the game was one of belief, not defeat. Head Coach Preston Worley has emphasized that a foundation is being laid that is one built on effort, accountability, and growth.

It showed under the Friday night lights, where the Knights refused to quit, even as the clock ran out.

West Bladen (2-5) will look to turn the corner next week on the road against Red Springs, carrying their improving culture and defensive grit into the final stretch of the season.

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Fairmont Edges West Bladen in Defensive Battle, 12-7