The Cairo High School ninth-grade Syrupmakers scored touchdowns early and late to edge the Bainbridge High School ninth-grade Bearcats, 12-6, Monday at Centennial Field.

Marcus Gaines ran four yards for a touchdown with 6:15 left in the first half to give the Syrupmakers a 6-0 lead.

Quarterback Stacy Masten tried to run in for the two-point conversion, but was  stopped short.

On the second play from scrimmage following the Syrupmakers’ initial score, Isiah Brown ran up the middle, broke into the open and ran more than 70 yards for a touchdown with  5:04 showing on the first half clock, to pull the Bearcats even 6-6.

Tremain McCray tried to run in for the two-point conversion, but was stopped short.

The winning touchdown, which came with 1:10 remaining in the game, was scored by the Syrupmakers’ Jacarie Gaines from 2 yards out.

Stacy Masten tried to throw for the two-point conversion but the pass was incomplete.