Warriors get first win of the season over Eagles at home

Sterling College got their first win of the season, defeating Avila University 29-17 on Saturday, Sept. 27 in Smisor Stadium. The Warriors threw for four touchdowns, with two coming in a decisive fourth quarter. The defense was crucial, recording two interceptions and a blocked field goal attempt, helping Sterling secure the win.

Sterling opened the game with possession but struggled to move the ball effectively, highlighted by a solid 11-yard pass from Jayden Briscoe to Ryan Stucky. The drive stalled, however, leading to a change of possession. The Eagles' subsequent drive was thwarted by a crucial interception by Christopher Dil at the goal line, returning possession to Sterling.

Midway through the first quarter, Sterling's offense showed flashes of potential as Briscoe completed passes to Kenneth Arroyos and Armando Juarez. However, consistent pressure from Avila stifled further progress. Despite these efforts, the quarter ended scoreless, with both teams displaying strong defensive stands, including an endzone interception by Sterling's Christopher Dillard Jr. on the Eagle's opening drive, to keep the game tied at 0-0.

The second quarter began with Kasaun Graham leading Avila University's ground attack into Sterling territory. However, Sterling's defense thwarted their progress as Nate Criqui blocked a 42-yard field goal attempt, turning momentum in Sterling's favor.

Sterling capitalized on this shift with a touchdown drive, highlighted by trick play that featured a 16-yard touchdown pass from Juarez to Briscoe, followed by a successful point-after attempt with a Briscoe to Juarez connection, bringing the score to 8-0. Avila University's subsequent drive was disrupted by a Derek Bean interception, keeping the Eagles scoreless through the first half of play.

Sterling opened the third quarter strong, capitalizing on Avila's initial struggles. The defensive effort was evident as Montgomery's tackle and Eagle's penalties forced a punt. Sterling then took advantage of the field position, culminating in Briscoe's touchdown pass to Arroyos, followed by a successful kick by James Henisey at 11:36, increasing their lead.

The Eagles responded later in the quarter with a 46-yard touchdown pass, narrowing the gap. Despite Sterling's defense applying pressure, Avila managed to convert a two-point attempt, cutting Sterling's lead. The period concluded with Sterling maintaining a narrow 15-8 advantage, setting up a competitive final quarter.

The fourth quarter began with Sterling in possession at the Avila 46-yard line. Rocklin Baptista's drive culminated in a 29-yard touchdown pass to Samuel LeBlue, followed by a successful extra point from Henisey, extending the lead. The Eagles responded with a drive of their own, resulting in a 39-yard touchdown run to narrow the gap.

Sterling quickly countered, as Baptista connected on a 52-yard touchdown pass to Juarez. Henisey's extra point was good, widening the lead again. The Sterling defense then held strong, with Jacob Bauman sacking the Eagle's quarterback to force a turnover on downs, maintaining a comfortable advantage.

The game concluded with Sterling securing a 29-17 victory due to a smart safety the Warrior's punter Mason Cobb took to help run time off the clock and prevent a punt block from the Eagles in the final seconds of the game. Sterling's offensive execution, defensive resilience and special team game awareness ensured their lead was preserved as the clock expired.

Juarez led the Warriors with seven receptions for 110 yards and a touchdown, adding a successful two-point conversion reception to his performance. Briscoe completed 15 of 24 passes for 150 yards and a touchdown, while also catching a 16-yard touchdown pass. Baptista contributed with two passing touchdowns on 125 yards, completing eight of his 15 attempts. Defensively, Dillard Jr. led with 10 tackles and secured an interception, while Bean collected eight tackles and an interception.

The Warriors will move to 1-4 on the season and will face Bethel College (1-4) in North Newton, Kan. on Saturday, Oct. 4 at 6 p.m.

Be sure to check for news and updates on Sterling Warrior Athletics on Facebook (/SCWarriors), Twitter (@SterlingCSports), and Instagram (sterlingcsports), as well as the hashtag #SwordsUp. Watch the Warriors' live home events on the Sterling College Sports Network.