By TRIPP NORRIS

The Opp Bobcats and Wicksburg Panthers did battle for the first time in history on Opp’s homecoming night Friday, which doubled as their home opener. The contest went to the Bobcats, 28-16.

After a lengthy drive by Wicksburg that came away with no points, the Bobcats hit paydirt in their first drive when Orlando Lacey scored from 25 yards out for an 8-0 lead after one. Opp poured on the points in the second quarter, putting up 20 to Wicksburg’s 8.

Hennis Washington scored the first of two touchdowns early in the second for a 16-0 lead.

Wicksburg cut the lead in half with their first score, until Washington scored for the second time, extending Opp’s lead to 22-8. With just nine seconds left until half time, Lacey found Tye Lindsey for a 33-yard strike that gave the Bobcats a commanding 28-8 halftime lead.

Opp allowed a quick score to the Panthers after Wicksburg recovered an on-side kick. The Panthers scored with nine minutes remaining in the third quarter to cut the lead to 12 at 28-16. Neither team was able to score the remainder of the game due to turnovers, and the Bobcats got the win 28-16.

Lacey led Opp on the ground with 12 rushes, 120 yards and a touchdown. Lacey was 15 of 18 passing for 181 yards with a touchdown.

Washington had 18 rushes for 97 yards and two touchdowns.

Schively named homecoming queen

Reggie Thompson caught seven passes for 141 yards, while Tye Lindsey had five for 62 yards and a score. Tramequez Lane was the leader on defense with 13 tackles and 2 sacks for a loss of 7 yards.

The Bobcats (3-0) travel to Houston Academy next week.