Churchland football hadn't started 0-2 since 2017.
A surprise loss to Smithfield last weekend broke that streak, but also seems to have motivated the Truckers.
Dontrell Leonard's group came out fast and physical in their home opener Friday night against Booker T Washington. An interception by Booker T DB/QB Isiah Gomez halted Churchland's first drive, but they wouldn't be stopped again before the half as they won easily over the Bookers 49-0.
Wide Receiver, and 3rd team All Tidewater selection Kingston Hall took a direct snap near midfield and broke multiple tackles to open the scoring. Running back Dontavius Booker caught fire from there. A 1st team All Tidewater selection, Booker scored on 3 consecutive possessions to effectively put the game out of reach. The two have played together since they were 5 years old, and present a challenge for any team Churchland faces.
With 25 seniors departing after last season, Leonard, Hall and Booker are bringing along a relatively inexperienced team that looks like they may be growing up in front of our eyes.
Leonard and Hall each credited a hard week of practice with getting the team in the win column for the first time this season.
Here are results from Friday's games on the Southside:
Maury 38, Highland Springs 7
King’s Fork 33, Western Branch 7
Oscar Smith 62, Great Bridge 0
Indian River 56, Hickory 3
Salem 48, Landstown 7
Cox 42, First Colonial 0
Nansemond River 42, Deep Creek 7
Ocean Lakes 43, Tallwood 19
Kempsville 28, Bayside 18
Churchland 49, Booker T. Washington 0
Norcom 39, Norview 7
Lakeland 14, Manor 8
Hopewell 24, Lake Taylor 13