Football Falls Short 24-20 To Tabor

HILLSBORO, Kan. - The University of Saint Mary Spires football team traveled to face Tabor College, pushing their opponents to the wire in a close 24-20 loss. Despite a strong start and standout performances from key players, Tabor's late surge ultimately secured their victory.

The Spires took the field with intensity, evening the score in the first quarter with a 19-yard touchdown run by Raymond Webster, capping off an impressive 8-play, 79-yard drive. Webster's rushing prowess was evident as he finished the game with 160 yards on 33 carries, driving Saint Mary's offense forward time and again.

Saint Mary gained control in the second quarter, as kicker Vincent McTigue nailed a 24-yard field goal to give the Spires a 10-7 edge. Shortly before halftime, Webster punched in another score on a 6-yard run, extending the Spires' lead to 17-7. This capped a 7-play drive that showcased Saint Mary's grit and gave them momentum heading into the break.

However, Tabor responded with force in the third quarter, as Cameron Collier's 4-yard touchdown run on the second play brought the Bluejays within three points. Collier proved a challenge for the Spires defense, finishing with 127 rushing yards and two touchdowns. Tabor tied the game at 17-17 with a 56-yard field goal from Nathan Heilig, and just minutes later, they took a 24-17 lead on a short 1-yard run by quarterback Wille Green following a costly Saint Mary turnover.

The Spires mounted a final push in the fourth quarter, with Josh Bingham converting a 30-yard field goal after a sustained 12-play drive. Saint Mary's offense was methodical, dominating time of possession, but was ultimately unable to complete the comeback.

Quarterback Cesar Vela showed poise, completing 11 of 20 passes for 114 yards, though he was intercepted once. On defense, linebacker Jaxon Curtis was a force, tallying 13 tackles and a crucial stop behind the line of scrimmage. Hunter Hendricks and Deante Nobles also made key plays in the secondary, each recording an interception to keep the Spires within striking distance.

The Spires left it all on the field, tallying 22 first downs compared to Tabor's 14 and outgaining their opponent in total yards. However, penalties and timely plays from Tabor kept Saint Mary from seizing the win.

The Spires (1-8) will look to regroup on the road next Saturday, November 16th at 11am against Avila.