Cougars Dominate Spartans, Earning A.B.K. Trophy for Fourth Straight Year By Jennifer Bailey Staff Writer   Covington, VA (Sept. 11, 2026)— The atmosphere at Casey Field this evening was electric as the Alleghany Cougars faced off against the Greenbrier East Spartans, ultimately dominating the visiting team in a staggering 42-6 victory. Tonight's game was particularly significant for several reasons: Not only did it mark the Cougars' first home game of the season, but it occurred on the 25th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks, and was part of the much-anticipated "Battle of the Borders" game. The "Battle of the Borders" game has proven to be a fierce rivalry between Virginia's own Alleghany Cougars and the Greenbrier East Spartans who represented West Virginia. This annual football game has become a tradition over the past four years since the Alleghany High School (AHS) Mountaineers merged with the Covington High School (CHS) Cougars to create the Alleghany Cougars. Tonight's annual rivalry had both the Spartans and Cougars vying for the coveted A.B.K. trophy. This trophy honors three cherished local sports figures: Gary Aide, Emory Brackman, and Mike Kidd, whose legacies continue to inspire the community. The Cougars seemed to claim their victory early, dominating the Spartans at every turn. The first quarter had the Cougars ahead 21-0, and, at halftime, they led 35-0. A scoreless third quarter seemed to fuel both teams into one touchdown each for the last quarter, ending the game with a 42-6 victory for the Cougars. Tonight's triumph marks Alleghany’s fourth consecutive win in this rivalry, as they continue to hold onto the A.B.K. trophy with Cougar pride. The team's performance demonstrated both skill and determination, leaving the Spartans with much to contemplate before next year's matchup.

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