Holly Springs Golden Hawks Edge Apex Cougars in High School Football Overtime Thriller
Holly Springs edged Apex 27–21 in overtime behind big plays from Jayden Perkins (#8), Tamaury Scott (#4), and Lamar Daniels (#3). The Cougar Crazies packed the stands as Apex’s late rally forced OT.
Note: View unedited game, player, cheerleader, dance squad, band, and fan photos here.
Holly Springs, NC, Sep. 7, 2025 — The Holly Springs Golden Hawks pulled off a dramatic overtime victory over the Apex Cougars, winning 27–21 in a non-conference rivalry matchup at Apex Cougar Stadium on Friday. In front of a packed house and raucous “Cougar Crazies” student section, both teams battled through momentum swings, strong defensive stands, and explosive offensive action.
Apex struck first when John Boone (#2) powered into the end zone to put the Cougars on the board. Holly Springs rallied in the second half behind big plays from Jayden Perkins (#8), Tamaury Scott (#4), and Lamar Daniels (#3). The Golden Hawks took control late, and Daniels sealed the win in overtime with a decisive touchdown run.
The night’s excitement never let up. At halftime, the Apex Dance Team and the Pride of the Peak Marching Band delivered spirited performances of their 2025 show “Under Pressure,” keeping the Cougar Crazies energized and the stadium buzzing.
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Quarter by Quarter Highlights and Score
First Quarter (0–0)
The opening quarter was a defensive slugfest. Holly Springs leaned on Perkins (#8) for tough inside runs, while Apex countered with Boone (#2). Both defenses forced punts and a turnover on downs. The first quarter ended scoreless, but the Cougar Crazies, cheerleading, and dance squads kept the stadium buzzing with chants and coordinated cheers.
Second Quarter (Apex 7–6 Holly Springs)
The Cougars opened the scoring when Boone (#2) carried the ball into the end zone, giving Apex a 7–0 lead and sending the Cougar Crazies into a frenzy. Holly Springs responded when Scott (#4) broke free for a 23-yard touchdown run with just over five minutes remaining. The extra point attempt was no good, leaving Apex up 7–6 at halftime.
Third Quarter (Holly Springs 14–7)
The Golden Hawks struck again with a methodical march downfield. Perkins (#8) churned out yards before Scott (#4) finished the drive with a one-yard touchdown run. Quarterback Cole Pare (#7) converted the two-point try on a keeper, giving Holly Springs its first lead at 14–7. Apex’s offense stalled as the Golden Hawks’ defensive front, led by Jackson Hunter (#51) and Avion Perry (#99), closed gaps.
Fourth Quarter (21–21)
Holly Springs extended the lead when Daniels (#3) broke a 70-yard touchdown run down the sideline, electrifying the visiting fans and briefly silencing Cougar Stadium. But the Cougars roared back—quarterback Holson connected with Dylan Piver (#15) and Landon Corley (#12) on key throws, then found Eric Roy (#1) for the tying touchdown. With just over three minutes left, the game was knotted at 21–21, forcing overtime.
Overtime (Final: Holly Springs 27–21)
Apex had the first possession but was pushed back by a penalty and saw its field goal attempt blocked. Holly Springs capitalized. After two bruising carries by Scott (#4), Daniels (#3) plunged into the end zone for the game-winning score, sealing a 27–21 overtime victory for the Golden Hawks.
Note: View unedited game, player, cheerleader, dance squad, band, and fan photos here.
End of Game Summary
The clash lived up to its billing as a hard-hitting rivalry. Holly Springs leaned on Scott (#4)’s two touchdowns, Perkins (#8)’s relentless rushing, and Daniels (#3)’s dual-threat heroics, including the overtime winner. Apex countered with Boone (#2)’s steady running, Kevin Dupree (#20)’s key gains, and clutch late passing from Holson, but ultimately came up short in extra time.
For Apex, the loss was tough in front of a loud and loyal home crowd led by the Cougar Crazies. Holly Springs, meanwhile, celebrated a signature early-season win that showcased grit and big-play ability.
Note: View unedited game, player, cheerleader, dance squad, band, and fan photos here.