Encountering the Stevens Falcons at Gustafson Stadium in the scorching heat for the team’s second non-district match, the varsity football team were ready to redeem themselves.
After a disheartening loss in their first game, the Brahmas were prepared for a battle against the Falcons, and it turns out that the Stevens’ players had similar mindsets.
A back-and-forth battle was introduced on the first play from scrimmage; a 70 yard touchdown run from Darik Dillard. After the long run, Dillard appeared to be in pain, and sat out the rest of the first quarter. He returned in the second, however, and finished the game with 181 yards and two touchdowns.
Not to be outdone, Stevens’ receiver, Jordan Thomas, returned the ensuing kickoff 85 yards down the field for a score. He finished the game with nine catches for 152 yards and two touchdowns.
Even with all of the explosive offensive plays, it was the defense that affected the game late.
With a 33-28 lead and just under two minutes left in the game, the Brahmas attempted to ice the game by going for it on fourth-and-one at the Stevens’ 23 yard-line. The Brahmas were unsuccessful and fell to the Falcons defense who held their ground and regained possession of the ball.
Just a few plays later, Stevens quarterback, Joshua Valdez, launched a ball downfield, and it was the Brahmas’ defense that answered the call this time, as defensive back Erick Kinney intercepted the ball with 38 seconds left in the game.
The Brahmas carry the momentum into their first district match against Smithson Valley Friday, Sept. 9, 7:30 P.M. at Comalander Stadium.
