South Pointe storms into first title game

Two scores in first three minutes spark Stallions’ latest rout

By RYAN TROUTMAN - Herald correspondent

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ROCK HILL — South Pointe scored on a punt return, an interception return and two long pass plays as it routed Laurens, 55-17, in the Class 4A Division II Upper State final on Friday night.

With the victory, South Pointe advances to next week’s state final against Northwestern, which South Pointe beat 28-7 in early October.

The Stallions took the opening kick off and drove 80 yards on four plays for its first score, a 1-yard run by Devin Wherry.

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Following Laurens first possession, South Carolina commitment Devonte Holloman returned a punt 46 yards to give South Pointe a 14-0 lead three minutes into the game.

Though Laurens kept close, trailing 21-10 in the second quarter, thanks to a passing game that finished with 288 yards, the momentum turned for good when the Raiders drove inside the 5 but turned the ball over on downs.

South Pointe struck quickly; receiver Charles Holmes produced a 76-yard pass play, and Laurens never got back in the game.

Stephon Gilmore led the Stallions with 163 yards rushing and 164 passing. Holmes contributed 154 receiving yards.

Pat Burris added a 43-yard interception return.

Cornerback Mike Gaither nearly returned another interception for a score, but he was tackled inside the 20 after a 50-yard return.

“To be such a young program and have an opportunity like this in only our third varsity season is special,” coach Bobby Carroll said. “It is a testament to these kids and our coaches and we are thrilled to have a shot.