Bullpups’ Bite Bigger Than the Hornets’ Sting

By Shelia Mader

The Cottondale Hornets hosted the Marianna K-8 Bullpups last week and faced tough competition in both games. Marianna’s A team edged out the Hornets 26–22, while the Bullpups’ B team claimed a 32–23 victory.

In A-team play, Marianna took an early 8–5 lead in the first quarter, but Cottondale answered with a 10–9 second quarter to stay close. The Bullpups held a slim 17–15 halftime lead, thanks in large part to Jaden Lovett’s 13 points. T.J. Jackson kept Cottondale in it with 11 points before the break.

The third quarter belonged to Cottondale as they outscored Marianna 5–2 to take a brief lead. But in the final period, the Bullpups found their footing again, putting up seven points to the Hornets’ two to earn the 26–22 win. Both Lovett and Jackson finished with 13 points apiece to lead their teams.

In B-team action, Cottondale jumped ahead 5–4 after the first quarter, but Marianna answered to tie the game 11–11 at halftime. The Bullpups then took control in the third with an 8–4 run and pulled away in the fourth, outscoring the Hornets 13–8 to secure the 32–23 win.

Colton O’Neal led Cottondale with eight points. Marianna’s offense was powered by Derron Hughes with 19 points and Tralyn Harvey with nine.

Both Cottondale teams continue to show grit and determination as they look to regroup and chase a win in their next outing.