Chestatee gets defensive against Falcons

GAINESVILLE - The Chestatee defense has felt all season it was better than the numbers.

It proved it Friday night in forcing five Flowery Branch turnovers in taking a 17-7 win at Chestatee Stadium.

The win for Chestatee (2-7, 2-6 in Region 7-AAA) sets a new record for wins in a season. The War Eagles finish the year next week on the road at Fannin County.

The War Eagles took advantage of several untimely Flowery Branch penalties. None was bigger than on a missed Chestatee field goal attempt late in the second quarter.

The Falcons (1-8, 1-7 in region) roughed the kicker allowing Chestatee to keep the drive alive and score the decisive touchdown on a 1-yard run by Lane Vasser. The War Eagles increased their lead to 17-0 on a 1-yard quarterback sneak by Miles Hicks in the third quarter.

Flowery Branch cut the lead to 17-7 midway through the fourth quarter on a 1-yard run by Kevin McConnell. The Falcons then recovered an onsides kick but the Chestatee defense snuffed out the drive.

The Falcons actually outgained Chestatee 199-175 for the game.

Flowery Branch will close out its season next week against Gilmer at home.

(By Jeff Hart)