The Hiram Hornets began their season on the road with a hard fought victory over the Kennesaw Mountain Mustangs Friday night at Scott Jones Field. The hornets stingy defense and timely big play capabilities gave them a 19-15 win in a non region tilt against a 6A class squad.
Just seconds after recovering a fumble on the KM 21 yard line, junior running back Marcel Murray dashed off right tackle for the touchdown,the extra point failed. That was all the scoring for the Hornets in the first half.KM scored in the second quarter to take the lead into halftime at 7-6. The second half proved to be a back and forth struggle with both teams having success moving the ball. Freshman Hiram wideout Jermaine Banks caught a bubble screen pass and showed blazing speed as he dashed 81 yards for a touchdown with the only score of the third quarter.
The Fourth quarter saw the Mustangs take the lead back with a 15 yard touchdown pass and a successful 2 pt conversion gave KM a 15-12 lead with 4 minutes to play. Taking the ball at heir own 17 yard line Quarterback Nathan Presnell went to work completeing 3 passes to 3 different receivers with the last a 50 yard strike to junior Jordan Jones and a go ahead touchdown. Kennesaw still had 3 minutes left and got the ball down to Hiram 14 before the defense of Hiram rose up and stuffed them on a 4th down turning the ball over on downs. It was an impressive start for the Hornets and was a major gut check for the defense that stood up when needed. The hornets also showed signs of a strong running game with Elijah Hairston and Marcel Murray showing promising potential. The Hornets take this Friday night off and will resume action next week against South Paulding.

Hiram's Jordan Jones scores the go ahead touchdown.

Elijah Hairston led a strong running attack for the Hornets.

Angry Hornets Swarming the ball keyed the victory.

Freshman speedster Jermaine Banks dashes 81 yards for 6.