Timberland defense fuels state title win

LEXINGTON, S.C. (AP) — Josh Alston returned a fumble for a touchdown and Za’Von Walker had an interception return score to lead Timberland to a 35-12 victory over Keenan to win the South Carolina Class 2A Division II championship.

It was first-ever undefeated season for the Wolves (14-0) and their second state title. Keenan (10-4) came up short in its first appearance in the championship game.

Alston’s 41-yard fumble return on the game’s second play started Timberland’s scoring. Darelle Pressley had a 10-yard touchdown run and Brandon Simmons rushed for a 1-yard TD.

Ryan Hood threw a 40-yard scoring pass to Daniel Robinson.

Walker’s interception return capped the scoring for Timberland.

Keenan scored on a 57-yard pass from D’Marco Ziegler to Kendrick Gathers and a 2-yard run by Tyreick Davis-Newton. The Raiders turned it over five times in the loss.