By Stephanie Cochrane Posted October 28, 2008
As Dayton’s team captains stepped onto the field hand in hand, Lowry knew their opponent’s unity would not be enough to bring them a win. From the kickoff, Lowry seemed to be playing on a new level. Last week’s loss to Fernley was obviously behind them as they pushed Dayton to a 4th down just minutes into the game.
Opening up with Lowry’s longest run of the game, junior Christian Alcaraz ran the ball 70 yards for the first score of the game. Although senior Tanner Schmidt’s PAT kick was no good, Lowry led 6-0 early in the game. Schmidt recovered Lowry’s onside kick to put the ball right back into Lowry hands. Pushing toward the goal line, senior Trevor Grant and junior Joel Barton took turns advanced the ball to the 5-yard line. Grant added another touchdown to the board.
Lowry’s defense was crucial in the early lead.
“We were fired up and we had that early momentum that we needed,” said head coach Billingsley.
The second quarter was a stalemate when Lowry errors allowed Dayton a chance at the ball. With one minute left in the half, Lowry senior Ricky Marley put a stop to Dayton’s comeback with a quarterback sack.
Senior Derrick Macliz opened the second half for Lowry with a 22-yard kick off return and then a 1st down on Dayton’s 46-yard line. The momentum slowed quickly when a Dayton interception was run in for a touchdown. Lowry blocked the PAT attempt and held the quarter with their defense.
Billingsley stated, “Defense was shining.
The 4th quarter was an intense one to watch. Each team fought hard to put the ball in scoring position. A Lowry interception saved the Bucks from what could have been a Dayton touchdown. Plagued with penalties, Lowry’s chance at a first down quickly faded. With the ball in Dayton hands and one minute left on the clock, the outcome of the game was unknown. Lowry pushed Dayton to a 4th down and a blocked pass by Senior John Wells ended the game. “John came through on that last pass play and knocked it down so that was definitely a game-changer,” boasted Billingsley.
The Bucks play Spring Creek at Lowry on Thursday for a seat at zone.
