Conqs’ late comeback effort falls short in finale
Photo courtesy of Dodge City Athletics
DODGE CITY–Independence’s defense made two late stands inside the 30-yard line in the fourth quarter, and the Pirates outlasted Dodge City 21-14 Saturday at Memorial Stadium.
The Pirates out-gained the Conqs 186-33 on the ground and used that rushing attack to control the clock and take the game by the reigns in the third quarter.
After going to the break tied at 7, Indy marched on their first drive of the second half, going 65 yards in 11 plays to re-take the lead.
Indy added to that lead with an 11-yard grab by Harrison Hamsley, his first touchdown catch of the season. That gave them a 21-7 lead with 50 seconds left in the third quarter.
In the fourth though, as the Pirates were trying for the finishing blow, Bobby Arnold III picked off Greg Jones, and the Conqs drove to score. Javon Campbell made a 29-yard acrobatic catch to bring the Conqs within one score.
After two drives in plus-territory stalled, Independence could’ve finished off the game in victory formation, but decided to run the ball anyway. Isaiah Jacobs fumbled at his own 39-yard line with 1:06 left, giving Dodge City one final chance to tie or win the game.
The Conqs were able to move the chains once, but couldn’t convert a fourth and two, and the Pirates took one knee to cap the win.
Grant Ciccarone completed 22-of-48 passes for 181 yards and two touchdowns for the Conqs.
Dodge City finishes the season 3-7 and 1-5 in KJCCC play.
