The Pinecrest freshmen responded to an early fumble that led to a Richmond touchdown by shutting out the Raiders the rest of the way and grabbing a 19-6 victory Thursday afternoon.

The Patriots improved to 6-1 with the road victory, avenging a 35-14 home loss to the previously undefeated Raiders three weeks ago. They close out the season with a home contest against Hoke County next Thursday.

What could have been a deflating start came on the opening kickoff. But Patriot quarterback Christian Ledbetter tied the game up at 6-6 a short time later on a four-yard keeper.

The Patriots were unable to convert the extra point, but took the lead just before halftime. A 25-yard pass play from Ledbetter to Stephon Stephens set up a 35-yard field goal by Kyle Corbett, making it 9-6.

The Pats caught the Raiders by surprise and added to their lead in the fourth period. On fourth and three, and in punt formation near midfield, Keegan Good took a direct snap and ran for a first down. Moments later, a 15-yard slant from Ledbetter to Mishak McCrae set up a 30-yard field goal by Corbett, making it 12-6.

A final Patriot drive ended in a three-yard touchdown run by Crash Burns. The conversion by Corbett completed the scoring.

Patriot coach Ronshau Cole praised the performances by the offensive and defensive lines.