Trojans fail to capitalize on Smithfield miscues, fall 28-7

New Kent quarterback Ryan Curle (center) is corralled by a couple of Smithfield defenders as he scrambles out the pocket.

Robb Johnson photo

New Kent had ample opportunities for scores, forcing Smithfield into four first half turnovers during Oct. 20 homecoming contest.

But the host Trojans only mustered seven points from Smithfield’s miscues. Meanwhile, the visiting Packers used a methodical offense to spoil New Kent’s homecoming night with a 28-7 beatdown of the Trojans.

Smithfield started strong, racking up 45 yards on the ground with the drive culminating on Caleb Brodie’s five-yard run less than three minutes into the contact.

New Kent’s spoiled its first two opportunities to score off Packer mistakes after Brodie muffed two consecutive punts deep in Smithfield territory . However, Packers quarterback Willie Drew connected with wide receiver Marcus Custis on a 44-yard bomb to end the first quarter 14-0 with the score favoring the guests.

The Trojans first break emerged after Smithfield fumbled at their own 10-yard line. New Kent running back Evan Branch tote across the goal line cut the Packers’ lead in half (14-7) as they entered into halftime intermission.

An eight-minute drive by the hosts yielded no points after failing to convert on fourth and three. After the change of possession, Drew followed a strong block along the right side of the line and raced 65 yards untouched for a Packer score. He also converted an additional score late in the game to account for the final margin.

After the game, Trojan head coach Clark Harrell made things very clear in a simple statement.

“They are a talented team and they gave us some chances with the turnovers,” he said. “But when you have a guy on the other side like Drew and you keep giving him chances, eventually you’re going to be in trouble.”

New Kent falls to an even 4-4 on the season.