South Greenville and Wando were two outstanding defensive teams in South Carolina, and two teams that seemed destined to meet in the state final.

South Greenville in blue. Jack Strobel photos.

And so it was, with the final being exactly what you’d expect. With Tropical Storm Ana dropping copious amounts of rain on the region, the fields were wet and muddy, and with two top-notch defensive teams, points were at a premium all day.

South Greenville entered the game with a decided size advantage up front, while Wando was able to cover the field a little better. Both teams managed one penalty goal in the first half, and South Greenville took the lead 6-3 with a penalty in the second half. With five minutes left, Wando equalized to force overtime.

Finally a try. Fullback Raekwon Madden had played a strong game all day, as he was challenged by Wando kicks for territory. Madden made a break that got South Greenville close to the Wando line, and then the forward surged ion, ran a few phases, and then sub prop Longinus Nnodim went over for the only try of the game.

South Greenville held Wando scoreless the rest of the overtime, and won 13-6.

Openside flanker Charlie Evans was a huge factor on defense for South Greenville, strolling through the Wando backline and not letting them get anywhere. Due to the wet conditions, Wando wanted to test Madden, but he was secure under the kicks, while Nnodim, aside from scoring the winning try, produced some big goal line tackles where he was needed.

“Our entire backline played tough D all match long,” said South Greenville Coach Phil Weston. “This was an unbelievably tough, physical game. It was the best high school match I’ve ever seen.”