Friday night’s 17-14 triumph over Smoky Mountain Conference rival Murphy is something Robbinsville faithful will reminisce about for generations to come.
The game had everything you could ever want, in terms of drama: hard-hitting defense, fumble recoveries that ultimately proved costly and a third-quarter rally that eventually led to the Black Knights’ victory.
However, unless you were in attendance at Bob Hendrix Memorial Stadium, you simply could never describe the feeling that went through each and every Robbinsville player, coach and fan when the final horn sounded.
Sure, there is a story on the front page that recaps the action. Thoughts were gathered from players and coaches alike about how special the moment is, with the overwhelming consensus remaining, “One game at a time.” And, yes, it was the first Black Knights’ victory over Murphy since 2015.
But the ear-splitting eruption of cheers that should have broken the sound barrier when the Knights sealed the win will send chill bumps up and down the arms of everyone on the visitor’s side of the stadium every time the memory pops back into their head.
During my first year covering the Bulldogs for the Cherokee Scout, Murphy’s junior varsity team welcomed Robbinsville. It was 2016. This year’s Knights seniors were freshman. The Bulldogs led big at halftime, but Robbinsville’s persistence in the second half almost resulted in an epic comeback.
Eerily similar, although Robbinsville got the job done Friday. The Knights can rest and prep for the second round of the playoffs. The No. 1 seed was not only warranted, but much needed. Chances are that the two teams will meet again in the playoffs, though the Bulldogs will visit Graham County for the second tango.
So relish in how sweet it is. Take this extra week to cherish it.
Then get ready for the playoff push. Robbinsville will host until the state championship game, no matter the opponent.
Be there.
Kevin Hensley is the editor of The Graham Star. He can be reached by phone, 479-3383; email, editor@grahamstar.com; and Twitter @KevinHensleyCNI.