Leeds Defense Stifles Center Point in 21-7 Victory
CENTER POINT, AL – The Leeds Green Wave showcased a dominant defensive performance on the road, securing a 21-7 victory over the Center Point Eagles Friday night at Bowman Field. With this win, Leeds improves to 6-3 overall and evens their Class 5A, Region 6 record at 3-3. The Green Wave defense was the story of the game, holding the Eagles to a mere 83 total yards over 40 offensive plays.
A Fast Start and A Decisive Response
Leeds wasted no time getting on the scoreboard. The first quarter was action-packed, with the Green Wave establishing an early lead. Running back Gavin Howard broke through the defense for a 6-yard touchdown run, putting the visitors ahead first.
Center Point answered back quickly with their only score of the night, a long touchdown run that briefly tied the game. However, Leeds responded with a trick play that proved decisive. Wide receiver Taylon Gaiter took a handoff and threw a 35-yard touchdown pass to fellow receiver Jordan Smith. This creative playcall put Leeds back in front 14-7, a lead they would not relinquish for the remainder of the contest.
Defensive Dominance and Offensive Control
While the offense made key plays, the Leeds defense was the true anchor of the victory. Throughout the game, they consistently shut down the Center Point attack, preventing them from finding any rhythm. Limiting an opponent to just over two yards per play is a remarkable feat and demonstrates a disciplined and well-prepared unit.
On the offensive side, Leeds maintained control by effectively moving the ball. The Green Wave offense accumulated 348 total yards on 60 plays, more than quadrupling the output of their opponent. Quarterback Sam Lollar managed the game efficiently, completing 11 of his 16 pass attempts for 137 yards. He also contributed to the ground game with 26 yards on 5 carries. The rushing attack was led by Jordan Lockhart, who carried the ball 17 times for 69 yards, consistently gaining tough yardage.
Taylon Gaiter was a versatile threat all night. In addition to his touchdown pass, he rushed for 43 yards on 5 carries and was the team’s leading receiver, catching 6 passes for 85 yards. Jordan Smith added 3 receptions for 44 yards, including his crucial first-quarter touchdown.
Sealing the Victory
After a defensive battle through the second and third quarters, Leeds added a final touchdown in the fourth period to put the game out of reach. Running back Tylin Moultrie punched it in from 8 yards out, extending the lead to 21-7 and securing the win for the Green Wave.
Looking Ahead to the Season Finale
With this region victory, Leeds looks to close out its regular season on a high note. The Green Wave will travel to Shelby County to take on the Pelham Panthers (3-5, 3-3) on Friday night. Meanwhile, Center Point, whose record slips to 1-6 overall and 0-5 in the region, will play their Region 6 finale on Thursday when they travel to Springville (1-7, 1-4).
