Box Score


FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. — Averett broke a scoreless tie in the fourth quarter and held on to beat Methodist University 7-3 on the road on Saturday afternoon.

Both teams had their share of opportunities through the first three quarters, but neither could punch through the end zone. Averett missed four field goals, while Methodist failed on one try.

Averett (5-2, 3-1 USA South) finally converted early in the fourth quarter. Senior Jeremy Dixon returned a punt 30 yards to the Methodist 18-yard line. Three plays later, senior James Wilson powered into the end zone from 1 yard out to help put the Cougars ahead 7-0 with 13:12 remaining.

Methodist (2-5, 1-3 USA South) responded with a 16-play, 73-yard drive that resulted in a 23-yard field goal by Tyler Mosko with 6:58 to play in the fourth quarter.

The Monarchs tried to convert an onside kick, but Averett recovered and marched deep into Methodist territory. On third-and-5 from the Methodist 6-yard line, freshman Clayton Navarre picked up a crucial first down. Methodist was forced to call its final timeout with 1:33 remaining and the Cougars kneeled to run out the clock for the win.

Averett nearly scored on the opening kickoff of the second half. Dixon returned the kick 83 yards for a touchdown, but the Cougars were called for holding. Averett still had the ball deep in Methodist territory and failed to convert any points after tossing an interception.

Wilson's touchdown gave him 11 this season, moving him within three of the Cougars' single-season record. It also continued his streak of at least one touchdown in each of Averett's first seven games — a new team record.

Junior Matthew Smith led the Averett defense with 10 total tackles.

The Cougars return to action next Saturday at Shenandoah University at 7 p.m.