Then reality set in
The Trojans scored just three plays later to take a 14-7 and then exploded in the second half en route to a 44-14 Region 7-AAA win over the Falcons at Flowery Branch Stadium.
Senior Corey Hutchins provided the go-ahead score on a 3-yard keeper following a 77-yard run by T.J. Pitts.
North Hall had the lead despite running just seven plays in the first half. Flowery Branch was able to control the ball with its wishbone attack but could only crack the end zone one time despite piling up roughly 150 yards on the ground.
The Trojans (1-0, 1-0) put the game away after running just four plays on offense.
Michael Christmas went 47-yards for the score after Hutchins connected with Chris Curtis on a 37-yard pass. After the Trojans stopped Flowery Branch on downs, Hutchins scored his second TD of the game on a 30-yard keeper for a 29-7 lead.
Pitts made it 36-7 when he scored on a 45-yard run.
The Falcons (0-1, 0-1) were able to cut the lead to 36-14 when quarterback Matt Jones scored his second TD on a 5-yard run.
Andy Espinosa had a stellar game for the Falcons with nearly 150 yards rushing.
Flowery Branch will travel to Gilmer next week while North Hall will travel to White County.
http://accesswdun.com/article/2003/9/173180