Smith: Wow, I'm really 30 now
I’ve really turned 30.
I feel like I’m going to turn into the crusty version of what I used to be, vehemently talking about the good days and wondering where the time has gone while handling business for Neuse News. In the same breath, there are a few games I wish I could’ve seen, but hadn’t. Here’s the list:
Ayden-Grifton vs. Arendell Parrott (volleyball)
The two best teams in the area would really turn into a match while silencing who was better in the process. All I can do is speculate as the Chargers have some great hitters, but the Patriots provide unbelievable defense with a punch.
North Lenoir vs. Arendell Parrott (basketball)
This would be awesome more for the student sections. I’ve compared the two as some of the best and most creative in the area, so actually having both I the same vicinity would be great. Plus, I’ve tried to set this up for several years so…
Greene Central vs. Arendell Parrott (girls’ tennis)
I really have a thing for public and private school matchups. Either way, it would be cool seeing a 25-time conference champion taking on a perennial powerhouse. Even though I don’t know tennis as well, it would be fun to check out.
Anyway, here are Friday’s matchups:
North Lenoir (0-3) vs. Greene Central (4-2) at Kinston High School
The Hawks play their first game since Sept. 7 against an opponent who has won twice since Hurricane Florence. The Rams defeated Washington 28-0 Sept. 21 and Farmville Central 20-16 on Tuesday, but North Lenoir looks to pick up its first win in a game where the Hawks play at Kinston High due to rough field conditions at home.
South Lenoir (1-3) at West Craven (1-3)
The Blue Devils have their hands full against the Eagles, who will look to make a statement in their Eastern Carolina Conference opener. West Craven hasn’t played since Sept. 7 while South Lenoir looks to recover from a 45-0 defeat against Kinston on Tuesday, while ruining the Eagles’ homecoming night in the process.
Rocky Mount Academy (2-2) at Arendell Parrott (3-2)
The Patriots have a chance to get back at a NCISAA opponent, falling to the Eagles 58-48 Aug. 17. Arendell Parrott had six lost fumbles in the first matchup, but will look to rectify mistakes at Hodges Field, especially after taking a 34-8 lead earlier this season before the collapse. Expect a stronger Patriots squad in Kinston.
Bethel Christian (2-2) at Northeast Academy (4-0)
The Trojans will get a second chance against the Eagles, falling 58-34 on Sept. 7. Bethel Christian has won its previous two games by a combined score of 120-18 since, so momentum is on the Trojans side as they try to establish dominance in the NCISAA 1A division. Expect a good game in Lasker as the Eagles will be ready.
Ayden-Grifton (3-2) at Washington (2-3)
The Chargers would make Paul Cornwell the winningest coach in Ayden-Grifton history with the victory here, but the focus will be on picking up a win in the conference opener. The Chargers have won their last two game by a combined 57-7 and hope to keep the momentum going against a Pam Pack squad who fell to Greene Central 28-0 on Sept. 21.
