LEAVENWORTH, KAN. - The University of Saint Mary Spires faced a tough challenge as they hosted the Kansas Wesleyan Coyotes, who stormed to a commanding lead early in the game, ultimately winning 38-19. Despite a spirited second-half performance, the Spires were unable to overcome the early deficit.

First Half: Coyotes Dominate Early

Kansas Wesleyan wasted no time setting the tone, scoring three touchdowns in the first quarter. Luke Armstrong powered into the end zone on a 1-yard run, followed by another 1-yard rush from Zarek Fewell. With less than a minute left in the quarter, quarterback Richard Lara connected with Woody Banks for a 29-yard touchdown, giving the Coyotes a 21-0 lead.

In the second quarter, Armstrong showcased his speed, breaking free for a 96-yard touchdown run. After a field goal from Talon Cope, the Coyotes continued to pour it on, and Armstrong added his third touchdown of the game with a 63-yard run, capping off a stunning first-half performance. The Spires managed to respond late in the quarter with a 37-yard touchdown run from Raymond Webster, but trailed 38-7 at halftime.

Second Half: Spires Show Fight

The Spires refused to back down, starting the third quarter with a more controlled offensive approach. A long, methodical drive ended with Brajoen Tidwell finding the end zone on a 6-yard run, cutting the lead to 38-13. The Spires' defense then held strong, preventing any more scoring from Kansas Wesleyan for the rest of the game.

In the fourth quarter, the Spires continued to rally. Quarterback Cesar Vela led a 93-yard drive, finishing with a 4-yard touchdown pass to Davien Norman. Although the two-point conversion attempt failed, Saint Mary showed resilience, outscoring Kansas Wesleyan 12-0 in the second half. Unfortunately, the first-half deficit was too much to overcome.

Key Performances

For the Spires, Raymond Webster led the ground attack with 110 yards on 20 carries, including his first-half touchdown. Brajoen Tidwell added 51 rushing yards and a score, while Cesar Vela completed 15 of 30 passes for 121 yards and a touchdown to Norman, Davien Norman had 6 catches and 38 yards with a touchdown, Jaxon Curtis had 12 tackles on the day, and Keylin Hodge with 2 tackles for loss and 2 passes broken up. 

Up Next

The Spires are now 1-6 overall and will play Sterling next week on Saturday, November 2nd at 1pm.