The Mathews High School varsity football team fell to 1-8 on the season following Friday night’s 14-8 loss to the visiting Charles City Panthers.

Mathews took an 8-0 lead into halftime following a 2-yard rushing touchdown by running back Jovan Johnson, who also scored the two-point conversion. The touchdown came with about 30 seconds left to play in the half.

Remarkably, the Devils had another scoring opportunity following a Panther fumble, but a touchdown pass to Elijah Willis was called back because of a holding penalty, and Mathews had to settle for an eight-point halftime lead. The second half didn’t go as well for Mathews, as the Panthers picked up two touchdowns to take the win.

Quarterback Jarius Monroe had 21 passing yards for the game. Johnson had 35 rushing yards for the game. Receiver Justin Ashberry had 20 receiving yards for the game. The Blue Devils’ linebacker Brett Perriello had five tackles; Jake Wilson had three, and Chance Spencer had two. Corner...