The Mathews High School varsity football team suffered a tough loss to cross-county rival Middlesex last Thursday night, 40-21. With the defeat, the Devils’ record falls to 1-1.

The loss came despite the Blue Devils drawing first blood and putting together a strong third quarter, keeping possession of the ball for most of the 12 minutes and narrowing the Chargers’ lead to six points.

Mathews took the opening kickoff and quickly drove downfield, with quarterback Thurman Hudgins completing a few passes and running back Reggie Johnson carrying the ball over the ground. With Tim White’s PAT kick, Mathews led, 7-0. White was a perfect three-for-three in extra-point attempts.

Sophomore Jalen Matthews was a standout for the Devils in all phases of the game, scoring on a 90-yard kickoff return, rushing for a touchdown and intercepting a Chargers’ pass. Elijah Willis had three nice catches, including a deep pass from Hudgins.

Everyone in the game for the Blue Devils ...