SAN ANTONIO, Texas — The Maryville Scots held off No. 6 Trinity in a 16-12 victory Saturday afternoon, extending their winning streak to four consecutive games in a defensive battle while remaining undefeated in conference play.
Maryville struck first midway through the opening quarter with a nine-yard touchdown run from Mushaba Zulu to cap off a six-play, 35-yard drive and take a 6-0 advantage. Trinity responded with a 26-yard field goal from Jackson Runyan before closing the half with a three-yard touchdown reception by Alejandro Tavarez from quarterback Hondo Franklin to take a 9-6 lead into halftime.
What followed was a defensive third quarter, highlighted by a spectacular 55-yard interception return for a touchdown by Jacquese Abner that gave the Scots a 13-9 lead heading into the fourth quarter.
It was the first of two interceptions on the day for Abner, who helped the Scots hold sixth-ranked Trinity to just 49 rushing yards while forcing five turnovers.
Trinity narrowed Maryville's lead to 13-12 with an early fourth-quarter field goal. However, the Scots' formidable defense held strong, keeping the Tigers' offense off the scoreboard for the remainder of the game.
Maryville cornerback Carmine Phillips delivered a crucial interception with 4:23 remaining, setting up kicker Jackson White's 32-yard field goal with one minute left. The kick extended the Scots' lead to 16-12 and forced Trinity to drive the length of the field in search of a game-winning touchdown.
Maryville's defense proved up to the challenge, stopping the Tigers' final Hail Mary attempt to secure a major road upset over sixth-ranked Trinity.
The Scots' defense proved to be the difference, forcing five turnovers while Maryville controlled possession for 33:51 compared to Trinity's 26:09.
Offensively, Maryville was led by running back Mushaba Zulu, who rushed for 71 yards on 21 carries and a touchdown. His performance helped the Scots establish a ground attack and maintain possession throughout the defensive contest.
The Scots now look to carry the momentum of their four-game winning streak into a homecoming matchup against No. 15 Berry College
