Andre White’s 4 TDs lead Vance past Hough, into state semifinals

Make room for Vance High in the 4AA final four.

The Cougars completed their season sweep of Hough with a 34-21 win in the third round of the N.C. West Region playoffs Friday by managing a slick field with opportunistic defense and four touchdowns by Andre White.

Vance forced three turnovers, including a 63-yard interception return by Power Echols in the fourth quarter that led to White’s 3-yard run for the final tally. White, who rushed for 93 yards and three touchdowns on 19 carries, also scored on a 15-yard reception.

Hough and Vance went back and fourth in the third quarter until Nigel Summerville and Nyier Clark connected on a 70-yard pass for a 27-21 Vance advantage, followed by Echols’ game-turning interception and White’s run.

Records: Hough 11-3; Vance 13-1.

Three who mattered

Andre White, Vance: The Cougars running back scored his team’s first two touchdowns, with a 15-yard reception and 2-yard run. He finished with 215 yards total offense.

Nigel Summerville, Vance: The Cougars quarterback hit 10-of-12 passes for 255 yards and a touchdown, including three completions of at least 40 yards.

Kennique Bonner-Steward, Hough: The Huskies’ quarterback hit 18-of-27 passes for 229 yards three scores. He connected on 4-of-10 passes for 71 yards before halftime.

Worth mentioning

▪ Weather posed major issues for special teams. Footing was slippery for the kickers and punters and Hough twice fumbled kickoffs.

▪ The Huskies defense was stout early, twice forcing Vance to turn possession over on fourth-down stops in Hough territory.

▪ Vance outgained Hough 184 yards to 107 in the first half. The Cougars gained 144 yards passing.

▪ Vance defensive end Nathaniel Lynn was a force on defense. He deflected a couple of passes, including Echols’ interception. He also had a sack.

▪ Hough receiver Austin Robinson was a tough cover for Vance with six catches for 137 yards and a pair of scores, including a 79-yarder in the third quarter.

What’s next

Vance hosts Myers Park in the 4AA West final.