LUMBERTON — In the final week of the regular season for high school football teams around the state, a pair of Robeson County’s teams seized the moment to secure postseason bids.
Purnell Swett entered the week in a must-win situation against Lumberton in regards to its playoff hopes. The Rams took advantage of the opportunity with a 27-20 win over their rival.
Red Springs felt more secure in extending its season, but showed no content in a 36-18 win over St. Pauls. With South Robeson entering the week as a lock for a playoff bid, its game against Fairmont was more about pride than anything.
The Mustangs and Golden Tornadoes put on a show, combining for 104 points in a 56-48 win for Fairmont.
Here’s a look at the team of the week and some of the top performers from Friday.
TEAM OF THE WEEK
Purnell Swett: No surprise here. The Rams went into their game against Lumberton needing a win to extend their season. Purnell Swett did just that. The Rams jumped out to a 21-7 lead and never looked back, earning their first win over the Pirates since 2011. On Saturday, they were rewarded with a 4-A playoff berth for the first time since that same year.
EYE POPPING PERFORMANCES
Luke Oxendine, QB, Purnell Swett: Oxendine set the tone for the Rams offense early against Lumberton and accounted for three touchdowns in the game. He found his top target Chandler Brayboy throughout the night and finished with 299 yards through the air with a pair of scores. He also had a rushing score.
OTHER TOP PERFORMERS
Chandler Brayboy, WR, Purnell Swett: Hauled in seven catches for 120 yards and a score. Also had a rushing touchdown.
Lee McLean, RB, Red Springs: Rushed for 180 yards and a pair of touchdowns against St. Pauls.
Jerome Bass, FB/LB, Red Springs: Tallied 12 tackles and 85 yards on the ground, with a pair of scores.
Noah Wheeler, QB, St. Pauls: Scored two rushing touchdowns and threw for another against Red Springs.
Derrick Arnette, QB, Fairmont: Passed for 246 yards and three touchdowns in the win over South Robeson.
Malik Arnette, RB, Fairmont: Rushed for 128 yards and three scores.
Darius Wright, RB, South Robeson: Picked up three touchdowns on the ground and 141 yards.
Nate Brooks, WR, Purnell Swett: Finished with 107 receiving yards against Lumberton.
Kalan Locklear, LB, Purnell Swett: Finished with four sacks, including the game-clincher.
Braylan Grice, QB, Lumberton: Accounted for three touchdowns against Purnell Swett.
Kwashek Breeden, WR, Lumberton: Hauled in 10 catches for 131 yards and two touchdowns against the Rams.
Breighlan Swindell, LB, Lumberton: Logged 10 tackles to lead Lumberton’s defense.
