The Gosnell Pirates (5-4, 3-1) saw their season close 36-30 on Nov. 27 against the Dumas Bobcats (9-3, 5-2)
Both teams prioritized the run game in the contest, but in contrasting fashions.
The Bobcat offense thrived on quick strikes to the end zone, while the Pirate offense was more drawn out, controlling time of possession.
Overall, only two of the night’s' touchdowns weren't scored by the starting running backs, sophomore Travelle Anderson and senior Kylin James.
The Bobcats got on the scoreboard first in their opening drive. James broke free for a 41 yard touchdown to help the Bobcats go up 7-0.
Penalties held the Pirates back on their opening possession. After driving down into the red zone, two holding calls stopped their momentum.
After a defensive stand from Gosnell, a Dumas turnover gave the Pirates great field position.
A high snap on a Bobcats’ punt attempt resulted in a Gosnell fumble recovery inside the 10 yard line.
The Pirates took full advantage, converting the fumble into a nine yard touchdown from Anderson. Anderson was able to follow the touchdown with a 2-point conversion as well to put Gosnell up 8-7.
Gosnell used an onside kick to regain possession quickly, but the Bobcat defensive stood tall to avoid consecutive scores from the Pirates.
However, once Gosnell regained possession in the second quarter, they extended the early lead.
This time, Gosnell used a 30 catch by Drew Reynolds to set up a scoring opportunity. A 4 yard rushing touchdown from Anderson and another 2 point conversion put the Pirates up 16-7 midway through the quarter.
Still, the Bobcats struck back fast to get back in the game. James returned to the end zone and followed with a 2 point conversion, cutting the Gosnell lead to 1.
The Bobcat defense forced Gosnell into their first turnover of the night on an interception on their next drive.
Dumas took advantage of the turnover with another James touchdown, however, a failed PAT kept the Bobcat lead at 21-16 going into halftime. The Pirates turned the ball over again with their opening drive of the second half, but the Pirates' defense kept Dumas from turning it into points.
Both defenses held strong throughout the quarter with both teams going scoreless. Still, Gosnell sustained a strong drive to close the frame and enter the fourth.
Senior Cooper Pieri found the end zone on a quarterback sneak to take a 22-21 lead early in the final frame. However, Dumas continued to find success on the ground with James as he scored the Bobcats' final two touchdowns of the game.
Despite some late scores by the Pirates, the deficit proved to be too much as time expired on Gosnell's comeback.