Box Score Stallions Fight Hard in JV Matchup but Fall Short Against Westgate 29-16
On Monday night, the North American University Stallions JV football team faced a tough test against Westgate Christian University, battling hard but ultimately falling 29-16. Despite flashes of brilliance and solid efforts on both sides of the ball, the Stallions couldn't swing the momentum in their favor during key moments of the game.
The action kicked off with Westgate putting up a quick touchdown to lead 7-0. However, the Stallions responded with a well-executed 75-yard drive led by QB Quinton Washington, who capped it off with a 12-yard touchdown run. After a failed two-point conversion, the Stallions trailed 7-6.
Westgate then built a commanding 21-6 lead after scoring two more touchdowns in the second quarter, but the Stallions fought back before halftime. Washington connected with wide receiver D'Marcus Woods on a 45-yard pass, setting up a 5-yard touchdown run by standout running back Donnie Simpson, closing the gap to 21-13 at halftime.
The second half saw the Stallions defense make several key stops, including an interception by freshman safety Mike Johnson. However, offensive miscues stalled the comeback effort. Kicker Luis Marquez added a field goal in the fourth quarter to make it 21-16, but Westgate sealed the victory with a late touchdown and a two-point conversion, pushing the final score to 29-16.
Key stats from the game highlight Westgate's edge:
- **Westgate Total Yards**: 197
- **North American Total Yards**: 103
- **Westgate First Downs**: 17
- **North American First Downs**: 9
- **Time of Possession**: Westgate – 46:23, NAU – 27:47
Despite the loss, the JV Stallions showed flashes of promise, particularly on defense.
Collin Wilson and
Sakievon Gordwin made key stops, with Gordwin also finding the end zone on a fumble recovery, giving a glimpse of the future varsity talent ready to rise.
JV Head Coach Justin T. McGlockton commended his team's resilience: "These guys played their hearts out tonight. We're building something strong here, and these JV games are key to our program's development."
While the team's effort was evident on the field, frustration boiled over for Rev. Coach Justin Jackson, North American's Sports Information Director, who couldn't help but address the elephant in the room: the lack of support from the NAU community. "It's disheartening. These players are leaving it all on the field, yet when they look into the stands, there's barely anyone there," Jackson vented. "We had varsity players coming out to help work the game—big shout-out to them—but where's the school pride? These athletes deserve more from their university."
Rev. Jackson has made no secret of his desire for more robust support from students, staff, and the administration, but after consulting with Dr. Randy Butler, he rethought his approach. "Dr. Butler gave me some sound advice," Jackson reflected. "He said, 'Yes sir, I think if they feel you're antagonizing them or challenging them, it won't yield the results you want. Tell them they're missing a good show, and the guys could really use the support to ink out wins with crowd support.' He's absolutely right."
Taking Butler's advice, Rev. Jackson pivoted from frustration to opportunity. "This isn't about calling anyone out—it's about showing everyone what they're missing. These games are a great show, and with a lively crowd, these players could really pull out wins. It's time we step up and show our Stallions that they've got the full support of NAU behind them."
The Stallions' JV squad continues to grow and show promise, but now the challenge lies beyond the field—building the atmosphere that fuels victory. So, the question remains: will the NAU community rise to the occasion and support their team in future games? The next chapter awaits.
