Woodbridge Football Edges Wilmington Friends in Tight Season Opener

Defensive Struggle Defines Opening Half in Greenwood

Playing at the Woodbridge Sports Complex in Greenwood, both teams traded defensive stops throughout a scoreless first quarter. Woodbridge broke through early in the second quarter after starting a drive on the 19-yard line following consecutive penalties. Senior quarterback Ryan Scott connected with Peden for a 46-yard gain, setting up a 31-yard untouched touchdown run by senior running back Malachi Hayes at the 10:09 mark. Junior kicker Evan Woodall converted the extra point to give the Raiders a 7-0 lead heading into halftime. The contest remained a grind into the second half. Woodbridge sophomore defensive back Christian Artson recorded the game’s first turnover by intercepting a pass at the 36-yard line during the third quarter, though the Raiders were unable to capitalize on the possession. Wilmington Friends controlled possession for large stretches, with Woodbridge head coach Marvin Dooley noting after the game that his defense was on the field for roughly half of the contest.

Late-Game Drama and Final Defensive Stand

Momentum shifted in the fourth quarter when Woodbridge advanced deep into opponent territory following a long run by senior running back Tyler Eley. A subsequent fumble at the 9:38 mark allowed Wilmington Friends to recover the ball at the 14-yard line. Capitalizing on the turnover, Wilmington Friends marched downfield and scored their only touchdown on a one-yard run by Strauss with 37.1 seconds remaining on the clock. Opting to go for the win, Wilmington Friends attempted a two-point conversion. Peden stopped Strauss just short of the goal line, maintaining Woodbridge’s one-point advantage. Senior tight end Jabril Neal secured the ensuing onsides kick to seal the outcome. Peden finished the evening with a game-high 16 tackles alongside 111 rushing yards allowed on defense to Strauss, who recorded 12 tackles. Hayes paced the Woodbridge offense with 41 rushing yards, while Scott managed the passing game that totaled 132 team yards compared to 195 yards for Wilmington Friends. Reflecting on the outcome, Dooley told his team, I’m happy with a win, it was an ugly win but I’ll take it. It’s hard winning high school football games, so enjoy this one. Woodbridge improved to a 1-1 record and travels to face the Sussex Central Knights in Georgetown on Friday, Sept. 12.