John Essex couldn’t bring in the win for their homecoming game falling against J.U. Blacksher 39-6.

The Hornets struggled with a few injuries during the game as many of their players play both sides of the football. However, they did welcome back Cedric Cooks from a neck trauma injury from last week’s game.

“We didn’t seem like we came to play tonight,” John Essex Head Coach Jerome Antone said.

Blacksher scored a 10-yard run for a touchdown early in the first quarter and converted the 2-points to take the lead 8-0.

A heated play call of inadvertent whistle by the officials called back a 25-yard fumble return for a touchdown by John Essex, leaving the Hornets scoreless in the first quarter.

Blacksher lead the Hornets at the half 16-0.

“We just have to go back to the drawing board and try to fix it,” Antone said.

The Hornets began the football game as many other schools have been for their homecomings with the AIR EVAC Lifeteam helicopter delivering the game ball.

For John Essex though, the helicopter pilot delivered the ball to a special John Essex family.

“The ball was delivered to Jaylon Worthy along with his mom and dad,” Coach Jerome Antone said. “The Worthys were also our parade grand marshals.”