Staff Report

Alexandria withstands Northeastern rally to advance, 48-40

FOUNTAIN CITY — Alexandria-Monroe’s fast start nearly disappeared Friday night, but a fourth-quarter defensive stand helped the Tigers secure a 48-40 victory over Northeastern in a Class 2A sectional opener.

Alexandria erupted for 28 first-quarter points while holding Northeastern to six, building a 22-point cushion. The Knights responded with a 20-point second quarter, outscoring the Tigers 20-7 to trim the halftime deficit to 35-26.

Northeastern continued its comeback after the break. The Knights scored 14 third-quarter points against Alexandria’s seven, leaving the Tigers clinging to a 42-40 advantage entering the final period.

After surrendering 34 points over the middle two quarters, Alexandria’s defense kept Northeastern scoreless in the fourth. The Tigers added six points to stretch their lead to eight and preserved the victory.

Alexandria improved to 7-3 and advanced to a sectional semifinal against Lapel. Northeastern finished 4-6.

Wyatt Fuller carried the Tigers’ ground attack with 127 yards and three touchdowns on 20 attempts. Quarterback Andru Segner completed 14 of 15 passes for 193 yards and two touchdowns without an interception, adding 35 rushing yards and another score.

Bryson Eckler made an impact on both sides of the ball. He caught seven passes for 142 yards and two touchdowns and returned a fumble 58 yards for a third score.

Alexandria finished with 371 yards of offense, combining 178 rushing yards with Segner’s 193 through the air. The Tigers recovered two Northeastern fumbles but also lost two of their own.

The victory extended Alexandria’s winning streak to five games.