Harlan County led in both yardage and penalties on Friday in a 16-8 loss at Perry Central, the first loss in HCHS history against the Commodores.
The 1-5 Black Bears rolled up 240 yards of rushing and 50 yards in passing for 290 total. Perry Central had 69 yards on the ground and 85 through the air for 154 yards total for the 3-4 Commodores.
Harlan County also led in penalty yardage with 15 penalties for 130 yards, a crucial stat for the Bears, who lost a touchdown in the first half on a controversial holding penalty. Perry Central was penalized four times for 45 yards.
Perry scored on the opening drive as Cade Miller went 29 yards on a sweep around the left side. Brady Adams pushed the lead to 7-0 by hitting the extra point.
HCHS answered on a drive highlighted by a pass from Cody Clayborn to tight end Gavin Ewald. Josh Turner went in from the 1 for a touchdown. Tyler Flanary went around the left side for the go-ahead two-point conversion.
The Bears appeared to extend their lead on a touchdown run by Josh Swanner on a long drive to open the second half, but a penalty wiped out the score.
Two Chanse McKenzie passes put Perry into scoring position, but the Harlan County defense held. Adams’ 33-yard field goal put Perry ahead 10-8.
Kobee Eldridge’s 10-yard touchdown run extended the lead to eight points.
Perry Central will travel to Williamsburg on Friday. Harlan County’s game at home against Bell County was canceled due to high coronavirus numbers in Bell. The Black Bears replaced the game and will travel to Anderson County.