The Gateway Gators battle to the final seconds in a hard-fought non-conference matchup before falling just short in a 14-12 loss to the Armstrong Riverhawks at Antimarino Stadium.
Gateway’s defense delivers a disciplined performance to keep the game within reach, registering their first points in the second quarter when a heavy rush forces a safety in the end zone following a clutch punt by Jacob Zielinski. Kicker Peyton McBride adds a field goal just before halftime to bring the Gators within two. Down 14-5 in the fourth quarter, sophomore quarterback Mayson Mitchell orchestrates a late scoring drive, finding senior Jaden Stammer for a dramatic 23-yard touchdown pass with 23 seconds remaining.
Offensively, freshman Ned Reid and running backs Darrell Harper and Julian Dancear generate key gains, while Kacey Carter, Michael Burrows, Khalid Harper, and Jakson Smith lead a tenacious Gator defensive front. Armstrong secures the narrow win behind quarterback Jaydon Oliver, who throws an 8-yard touchdown pass to Trace Kinzey and a second-half touchdown strike to Theron Cupec.
