The Leopards won their final home conference match on Friday, beating Princeton in a 47-0 shutout victory, coming on the heels of their 48-0 victory over Hobbton last Friday night.

Lakewood has outscored opponents 368-85 this year and is currently riding a three-game winning streak. Friday marked the sixth shutout victory of the year for the Leopards.

“We played really well tonight. I was happy for our seniors — they made a statement,” said Lakewood coach James Lewis. “(Princeton) has a good team, but it was just our night. Kids played outstanding, they executed well and our defense played lights out.”

Lakewood took an early lead, earning 13 points in the first quarter with a 7-yard dash by Jameek Johnson followed by a Tyler Hobbs’ PAT and then an 8-yard fumble recovery by Shemar Tucker. The Leopards extended the lead, with Jahdon Smith running for two 5-yard touchdowns, Johnson earning another two points in a conversion.

Lakewood added to the lead with a touchdown reception by Bryce Tanner and another Hobbs extra point.

After two potential touchdowns were made void after Lakewood twice got penalties on the play, they earned a final seven points. Jaylen Torres scored a touchdown after a 25-yard fumble recovery and Hobbs kicked the final point.

“We talk all year about saving our best till the end of the season and we hope we can live up to it,” said Lewis. “We have a tough match next week. Union is always a tough place to play.”

Lewis also touched on the tragedy that happened in the community of Union.

“One of their assistant coaches who’s played for me before, Coach Sampson, his mother was in critical condition after a car accident last night and was killed,” said Lewis. “We’re praying for that community and family. We’re very close to them.”

On defense, Tristan Holmes tallied eight tackles, with Luke Brewer, Torres and Joshua Carter each with five tackles. Tucker added three tackles and Jaylin Avery had a blocked punt and two tackles.

On offense, Sessoms had three carries for 68 yards; Johnson had six for 43 yards; Smith tallied 17 rushes for 24 yards; Immanuel Mitchel added two for 20 yards; Dylan Ivey had two for 12 yards; and Tucker had two carries for eight yards.

Sessoms was a perfect 4-for-4 passing for 91 yards. Andre Rich corralled three receptions for 60 yards, Smith had one for 26 yards and Tanner had one reception for 18 yards.

Lakewood’s final conference game will be next Friday at Union. Lakewood stands at 8-2 overall, 3-1 in conference. They finish a perfect 6-0 at home.

Cameron Sessoms sits in the pocket prepared to deliver a strike as Joshua Carter provides his block.
https://www.clintonnc.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/web1_Cameron-Sessoms-and-Joshua-Carter.jpgCameron Sessoms sits in the pocket prepared to deliver a strike as Joshua Carter provides his block.

Jameek Johnson makes one player miss as he makes his way downfield in the Leopards’ 47-0 victory Friday night.
https://www.clintonnc.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/web1_JLHS.jpgJameek Johnson makes one player miss as he makes his way downfield in the Leopards’ 47-0 victory Friday night.
Leopards come up big on defense again, finish perfect at home

By Chris Froat

Sports Writer

Reach Chris Froat at [email protected]. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter @SampsonInd.