On Friday night, September 11th, Western Albemarle entered a physical contest with Spotswood. With a big night from Michael Vale and his three touchdowns, the Warriors prevailed to a 42-28 victory over the Trailblazers.

Along with Vale, the Warriors received a career night from quarterback Sam Hearn. Hearn finished 15-19 with 323 passing yards, six touchdowns, and 147 rushing yards on 21 carries. The senior captain’s stat line doesn’t end there as he also tacked on two interceptions at safety for the Warriors. Oliver Herndon was his normal self on friday, tallying on two receiving touchdowns.

Unfortunately, star running back Oliver Herndon suffered a serious head injury late in the game against Spotswood. On what looked to be an illegal tackle, Herndon was flung to the ground by the back of his helmet, suffering a neck injury during the process.

Coming off of a bye week, The Warriors have a Thursday night battle at Monticello. The University of Virginia’s home football game against Boise State on Friday night is moving all local high school games to Thursday to maximize attendance. The Mustangs defeated Spotswood 28-14 last Friday, which proves this Thursday’s game should be tight. Defensive End O’siris Crutchfield said, “I’m excited to play Monticello, they’re our rivals, we gotta get ready for them.”