Southside routs Sumter Central 56-6 for homecoming

Southside High School got their second win of the season Friday night with a strong offensive performance against Sumter Central High and a big score of 56-6.

It was also Southside’s homecoming game.

Southside wasted no time getting on the scoreboard, as No. 2 Ahmad Moore ran in the opening touchdown and successfully completed the two-point conversion to give the team an early lead. Moore struck again with another impressive rushing touchdown, although the two-point conversion attempt was unsuccessful.

Southside ended the first quarter with a 14-0 lead over Sumter Central. 

The second quarter opened with another strong performance from Southside, as Moore, a junior running back, powered through a stiff-arm run into the end zone for a touchdown, extending the lead to 20-0. Southside continued its offensive momentum with a completed pass to a receiver for another touchdown, pushing the score to 28-0.

Sumter Central finally found its way into the end zone, getting on the scoreboard and making it 28-6. However, Southside quickly responded with a touchdown on a punt return, followed by a successful two-point conversion to extend its lead to 36-6. 

Southside continued to put points on the board with another touchdown, making the score 44-6. The team added another score to increase its advantage to 50-6. Roosevelt Jones, a freshman, then ran in another touchdown, further highlighting Southside’s strong offensive performance.

Southside Coach Josh Thacker said the team has improved over the season.

“We're still trying to turn the corner. I don't know if we're at the corner yet, but we're getting really close,” Thacker said after the game. “Guys are buying in, guys are working hard. Attitudes have gotten much better. Character is building every day, so we're proud of them for that. Of course, we’re proud of the score tonight and effort tonight.”

Southside maintained control throughout the matchup, showcasing its speed and ability to make big plays.

Southside plays Isabella (5-1) next week at home.

The Homecoming Court was recognized during the game. The court is:

McKenzie Aaron - Miss Freshman

Royalty Hall - Mr. Freshman

Taylor Murry - Miss Sophomore

Alonzo Brown - Mr. Junior

Ca’Liya Donaldson - candidate for Miss Junior

Alexia Holman - candidate for Miss Junior

Alayjah Fincher - candidate for Miss Southside 

Khamari Livingston - candidate for Miss Southside