MICKEL PONTHIEUX / Sports Reporter

The Vincent Yellow Jackets battled for a 28-19 road win over West Blocton on Friday, Aug. 31.

After a scoreless first quarter, Vincent (1-0) jumped out to a 14-0 lead in the second quarter. Anterio Rogers started the scoring for the Yellow Jackets with a 65-yard pass reception from Damauntey Johnson for a 7-0 lead. Kevin Greene then found the end zone on an 85-yard punt return later in the period.

Evan Vick led West Blocton back into the game with two touchdowns on the ground for a 14-13 Vincent lead at the half.

Johnson put the Yellow Jackets back into the end zone in the third quarter on an 11-yard touchdown run and added the two-point conversion for a 22-13 Vincent lead.

The Tigers drew back within three points on a touchdown by Jaylon Gaines, but Vincent put the game away when Rodney Groce on a 45-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter for the 28-19 win.

“Our guys played gutsy,” said Vincent head coach Zeb Ellison on the win. “Some things went against us, but I’m proud of our guys.”

Johnson led Vincent with 118 yards rushing with a touchdown and threw for 128 yards on 8-of-15 passing with a score. Groce added 116 yards on the ground with a score.

The Yellow Jackets will travel to Walter Welborn to open Class 2A, Region 6 play on Friday, Sept 7.

CORRECTION: Vincent sophomore receiver Jace Green scored the first touchdown for Vincent on Aug 31, not Anterio Rogers. Green also scored on an 85-yard punt return.