ELLIJAY — Fannin County snapped a five-game losing streak to arch-rival Gilmer Friday night taking a 17-14 victory on the road in the two teams’ season opener.
The Rebels (1-0) used a 10-point third quarter outburst to break a 7-7 tie at halftime.
Brad Davis exploded for a 40-yard touchdown run and Bryan Carranza connected on a 37-yard field goal to give Fannin County a 17-7 lead heading into the fourth quarter.
Gilmer (0-1) trimmed the lead to 17-14 in the final minutes but the Rebels recovered the ensuing onside kick, converted one first down, and then ran out the clock to preserve the victory.
“It was a big win for us and a great way to start the season,” Fannin County coach Jim Pavao said.
Austin Brown gave the Rebels a 7-0 lead in the first quarter on an interception return for a touchdown. Gilmer tied the game in second quarter.
