JACKSON - The Belhaven Football team fell to Millsaps, 23-21, in Thursday night's season opener at Harper Davis Field. The loss snapped a three-game winning streak for the Blazers in the annual Riverside Rumble.
Similar to last season's start, Belhaven got out to an early lead after a turnover on downs led to a quick offensive scoring drive. The Blazers capped the opening drive of the season off with a 24-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Blake Kirby to RJ Garrison down the Belhaven sideline.
A couple of drives later, Kirby connected on a deep ball to receiver Jacobey James-Grace for another Blazers' touchdown to extend the lead to 14-0 in the opening quarter. The hosts found the endzone for the first time early in the second quarter to cut the Belhaven lead in half. The Majors added a late field goal as the Blazers took a 14-10 lead into the break.
Millsaps provided the lone score of the third quarter to take a 17-14 advantage into the final 15 minutes. The hosts added another with 14:23 left in the game, but a failed PAT put the score at 23-14.
Belhaven found the spark they needed midway through the quarter as Kirby once again hit Garrison for a 30-yard strike to cut the Millsaps lead to just two. The Blazers' defense came up with a pair of stops late, but Belhaven could not capitalize as the Majors held on for a 23-21 win.
Kirby finished the night 12-for-16 through the air for 178 yards and three touchdowns. James-Grace hauled in three passes for 85 yards and a score, while Garrison totaled 54 yards on two catches, both going for touchdowns.
Defensively, Wyatt Beck led the Blazers with 11 tackles, while Jay'Den Jones totaled 10.
The Blazers now turn their attention to the home opener next Saturday, September 14th, when they welcome 13th-ranked Trinity (TX). Kickoff from Belhaven Bowl Stadium is set for 6:00 PM and will be broadcasted on the Blazers Sports Network.
For the latest news on Belhaven Blazers athletics, follow @BelhavenBlazers on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook. To support Belhaven Athletics check out Team Green Giving.
