1-4!!! Not the record that we wanted to have after our first Eastern Collegiate Football Conference (ECFC) matchup vs Gallaudet University. It was a very tough loss to take. We were so close to winning the game. The loss had major adverse implications on our chances of winning the conference title again.
We knew that we had to put the rough 4-game stretch behind us and focus on the week 6 matchup vs Castleton University at home on Dale Lippert Field. Coach Tirrell emphasized that we must protect the “Dog Pound” this week. This game vs Castleton University was even more of a must-win game because losing it would significantly decrease our chances of winning the conference. It would prevent us from being awarded a berth in the NCAA Playoffs. This playoff berth would also give our gritty and hardworking senior class at least one more game of college football before their football careers ended.
We practiced extremely hard all week and felt that we were mentally and physically prepared to make a statement on Saturday. On game day, as we warmed up for the big-time matchup, the first thing we noticed was the large, hostile, and very loud crowd of Castleton fans that had traveled to the game. We didn’t let that faze us. We felt like we were ready to accept the challenge.
We took a 3-0 lead to start the game with a 38-yard Mason Dill field goal. Castleton then kicked a field goal to tie the game up. In the second quarter, it was first and goal for the Castleton University offense at the 1-yard line when sophomore safety Dre Kidd delivered a nasty knock out hit that forced a fumble in a big time highlight reel play. Freshman defensive lineman Malachi Reeves scooped the loose ball up and helped us make a big red zone stop. On the very next play, quarterback David Curry was sacked in the end zone which gave Castleton a safety and a 2-point lead. Castleton University quickly scored again in the second quarter off a 40-yard touchdown catch from senior wideout Anthony Martinez. David Curry then connected with star receiver Errol Breaux on an 11-yard touchdown reception to make it a 12-10 ball game going into the half.
In the third quarter, backed up close to our own end zone, we called a shovel pass to Breaux and he was tackled in the end zone by Castleton University senior Chris Rice which resulted in the second safety of the day from the Castleton University defense. Early in the 4th quarter, Mason Dill kicked his second field goal of the day and cut the deficit to 1 point. Castleton then drove down the field and took 8:44 off the clock and scored another touchdown. Castleton University won 21-13 in a very close and tough loss at home.
It was especially difficult to watch some of our seniors, who put their heart and soul into the season, cry in disbelief after the game because the chances of winning the conference are very slim now. Now we must keep our heads up and try to win vs Keystone College in Week 7.
More on that next week, Inside The Bulldog Huddle.
Comments