Albemarle’s 2019 varsity football opener saw the Bulldogs fall at home Saturday night to long-time state playoff rival, Thomasville, 16-0.

Quarterback Antonio Burns led Albemarle (0-1) with 105 rushing yards on 16 carries while Julius Smith added 48 yards on 10 carries.

Burns was also 4-of-13 through the air for 18 passing yards for Albemarle.

On defense, Adrian Little led the “Oak Tree” defense with 10 tackles, forced one fumble and blocked two kicks. D.J. Watkins and Malachi Baldwin each added five tackles and Julius Smith had four tackles and blocked a Thomasville punt.

Saturday’s loss to Thomasville was the fifth loss in the last six outings for Albemarle against the red-clad Bulldogs and the second straight shutout loss as well.

Albemarle hosts West Stanly on Friday night. The Colts’ scheduled game with Piedmont was cancelled so the road game at Albemarle will be West’s season opener.