BOILING SPRINGS — All Brock Melton wanted for his 18th birthday was a win over rival Shelby.
In his fourth and final time playing in a rivalry considered among the best in North Carolina, the Crest senior standout will also be remembered for being part of one of the series' more iconic plays.
Melton’s touchdown reception from quarterback K.J. Bell in overtime lifted the Chargers to a 27-24 win over Shelby on Friday, Aug. 28 at Side Bryson Stadium in Boiling Springs.
The win was Crest’s fifth in a row over Shelby, matching its win streak from 1998-2002 as the program’s longest in series history. Only Shelby’s teams from 1974-79 have won more consecutive games in the series.
Crest further narrows Shelby’s advantage in the all-time series to 30-27-1. By no means was it easy.
Before most had settled into their seats, Shelby scored the game’s first 14 points. Gifted with great field position, the Golden Lions cashed in courtesy of a two-yard Jonas Woods touchdown scamper, followed by a TD pass from quarterback Cruz Scott to wideout Immanuel Collins.
Crest answered back with the game’s next 21 points. First, Melton punctuated a physical Charger drive with a one-yard TD run, with Bell connecting with Florida State recruit Majay Thompson for a 10-yard TD two series later.
The Charger defense got in on the scoring as well, defensive back Jahmere Canady returning an interception for a TD to give Crest its first lead of the night.
Things would remain that way until midway through the fourth, Woods’ second TD scamper drawing Shelby even at 21-21.
Shelby took the ball first in overtime, earning six yards before settling for a 21-yard Matt Grenier field goal. Facing a third-and-goal from its 10-yard line, Bell drifted toward the Crest sideline, waiting patiently for an open receiver to emerge before lofting a pass to Melton for the game-winner.
Crest has now won five consecutive games against Cleveland County opponents. The Chargers (2-0) take on Asheville in Week 3.
Meanwhile, Shelby (1-1) starts Southern Piedmont 2A/3A/4A play Sept. 4 when it hosts Highland Tech.
This article originally appeared on The Shelby Star: Another heart-stopping finish? How Crest-Shelby football was decided
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