James Kenan remains unbeaten

By News-Argus Staff
Published in Sports on October 12, 2008 1:26 PM

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SALEMBURG -- James Kenan began defense of its Class 1-A Super Six Conference title with a 34-0 shellacking of Lakewood on Friday evening.

The No. 1-ranked Tigers (7-0 overall) claimed their 29th consecutive regular-season victory and 11th straight against conference opposition since 2005.

Jamar Rogers broke a 30-yard touchdown scamper with three minutes left on the clock, and was followed by a Brian Moore 45 yard punt return two minutes later.

The Tigers led 14-0 after one quarter.

"We have been working on running the ball better during our off week, and tonight it paid off," said third-year James Kenan head coach Ken Avent Jr. "We didn't have any turnovers and we were able to sustain some offense, so I was pleased with that."

The often-overlooked Tiger defense took over for the final three quarters.

Josh Hicks delivered seven tackles for James Kenan. Teammate Kyle Bostic added six tackles and two assists.

"We knew we needed to get a lead early, and we helped our defense by doing that," said Avent Jr. "Lakewood had some depth issues and we knew we couldn't let them hang around and gain confidence."

Quarterback Shawon Darden paced the Tiger offense with 74 yards through the air and two touchdowns.

"Shawon has been great so far this season," said Avent Jr. "His goal was to complete 60 percent of his passes, and he is just about doing that."

Victor Parker was the leading ground gainer with 87 yards on 16 carries.

James Kenan entertains state-ranked and unbeaten Midway (7-0) next Friday. Kickoff is 7:30 p.m. at Bill Taylor Field.

"Their undefeated and we're undefeated. I don't think it will take a lot of coaxing to get the guys fired up," said Avent Jr. "We played them tough last year and I think they are even a little bit better this season."