Pooler, Ga. — Jmere Doe-Davis powered into the end zone on a 5-yard run with less than four minutes remaining to lift Effingham County to a gritty 23-20 win over New Hampstead on Friday night at Pooler Stadium.

The Rebels (1-1) pulled out the victory despite playing nearly the entire game without starting quarterback Tucker Perkins, who exited after just one snap due to the ankle sprain he suffered last week against Houston County.

Backup quarterback Kris Swinney stepped in and guided three scoring drives, including the decisive 61-yard march in the final minutes after New Hampstead had surged ahead 20-15 with 7:50 left.

Doe-Davis capped the night with 90 rushing yards on 19 carries, while Swinney not only managed the offense but also ran for a touchdown and converted a two-point try.

Effingham’s first score came on a 2-yard run by JR McKenzie, followed by another two-point conversion from Noah Reese.

The Rebels’ comeback spoiled a standout performance from New Hampstead running back Christian Kinlaw, who scored all three of the Phoenix’s touchdowns — two on the ground and one on a reception.