Two explosive touchdowns and three costly turnovers turned an early Irish lead on its head as the Braves battled defensively, and handed them their first loss.
The Falcons couldn't do enough with a limited number of possessions as the Golden Hawks monopolized the second-half clock with their crisp, consistent ground attack.
The Crusaders competed in situations, but again struggled to keep pace on the scoreboard with a second-straight home opponent that had them outmatched in experience, and explosive plays.
Turnovers gave and took away, but were far more costly than they were beneficial for the Falcons as four fumbles sunk their fortunes on a self-destructive Friday in Brooklet.
With every new school year comes some turnover on local high school sports sidelines. Here's a look at this offseason's new additions to coaching staffs at Dublin, East Laurens, Trinity and West Laurens.
Members of the GTLN's Dublin news team placed first in two categories, and second or third in six others, with entries representing the best of their coverage, photography, columns and special publications from 2025.
Three silver medalists led the Crusaders at last weekend's state meet, following a runner-up performance at region. The Irish, Falcons and Raiders, meanwhile, qualified 15-plus for state in last weekend's GHSA sectional action.
The Raiders' teams both clinched spots in the AAA state tournament, coming up May 18-19 in LaGrange, with their top-three finishes Tuesday in Statesboro.