Covington jumped out to an early lead in cruising to a 28-12 win over fellow Pioneer District foe Parry McCluer, 28-12, in the opening round of the Region C , Division 1 East Section Friday night in Covington.

The Cougars (8-3) now play another Pioneer District opponent, Bath County (5-6) next week.

After a scoreless first quarter, Troy Helton would score on runs of 23 and 10 yards to make it 14-0 at the half.

Covington upped its lead to 28-0 in the third quarter on a 4-yard scamper by Helton and a 13-yard run by Dickson.

The Fighting Blues avoided the shutout, as Lucas Wheeler hauled in a 14-yard pass from Stinnett and then galloped 61-yards for a touchdown to make the final 28-12, Cougars.

Parry McCluer, who tallied 231 yards of total offense, was led by Wheeler, who had 109 yards on 18 carries and two touchdowns.

Covington, who posted 237 yards of total offense, was paced by Helton, who had 123 yards on 18 carries and three TDs.