CAIRO — The Cairo Syrupmakers found the win column Friday night by burying the Kathleen Red Devils with a steady dose of electric plays — in the ground game and on special teams.
Running back Bryian Duncan set a school record with 300 rushing yards and five touchdowns, while Justyn Teal returned two kickoffs for touchdowns, including an 87-yard return to start the game, and the Syrupmakers cruised to a 63-24 victory.
It was an important first win of the season for the Syrupmakers and head coach David Coleman following the last two weeks of emotional losses to rivals Thomas County Central and Thomasville.
“It was good for our kids to come out and be able to get the win tonight; good for our program,” Coleman said. “It was good for our young guys that are stepping up and filling roles for us. We’re proud to get the win.”
Cairo had big plays throughout the night following Teal’s dazzling opening kickoff. Duncan finished with touchdown runs of 8, 26, 51, 62 and 44 yards. He averaged 18 yards an attempt.
“He’s a good kid and a good football player,” Coleman said. “Tonight, I was happy to see him have some success on the football field behind his offensive line. The whole offensive unit had a pretty good night.”
Duncan’s backfield mate Xiquavian Teal scampered 93 yards for a score in the second half. The Syrupmakers rushed for 473 yards and only attempted one pass in the game. Xiquavian Teal finished with 114 rushing yards. Dmauri Wooden added 54 rushing yards in the first half.
“We’ve got to be able to run the ball to win and tonight we came out and did that,” Coleman said. “Hat’s off to our guys for a good job.”
Justyn Teal added a 92-yard kickoff return for a touchdown in the second half.
Cairo will return to the field on Friday at the Cook Hornets.