SELINSGROVE, PA. – In an exciting comeback, the nationally second-ranked Cortland Red Dragons overcame a 17-point deficit to beat 11th-ranked Susquehanna River Hawks, 40-38, at Amos Alonzo Stagg Field. This win extended Cortland’s winning streak to 15 games and allowed them to avenge last year’s loss to Susquehanna.
Cortland (3-0) came into the game looking to keep their strong start going. However, Susquehanna (2-1) quickly took control, jumping to a 14-0 lead with touchdowns on their first two drives. The River Hawks showed their offense’s strength, with quarterback Josh Ehrlich throwing a 12-yard pass to Kyle Howes and running back Rahshan La Mons breaking free for a 61-yard touchdown.
The Red Dragons fought back, thanks to a spectacular 100-yard kickoff return from Jaden AlfanoStJohn, which marked their first score. Susquehanna extended their lead to 24-7 with a 9-yard touchdown pass to Chris Bookter and a field goal from Christian Colasurdo. However, Cortland’s defense stepped up, allowing only one touchdown over the next 40 minutes.
Cortland began to close the gap with two touchdowns from quarterback Zac Boyes, making the score 24-20 at halftime. In the second half, the Red Dragons took the lead with a 3-yard run from Ethan Gallo. But Susquehanna responded with a 44-yard touchdown catch from Bookter, putting them back ahead, 31-27.
As the game continued, both teams exchanged scores. Gallo’s strong running and Boyes’ passing helped Cortland on an 80-yard drive that ended with a 9-yard touchdown run, giving them a brief lead at 33-31 after a missed extra point.
In a tense finish, Susquehanna put together a 75-yard drive, capped by a 14-yard touchdown pass from Ehrlich to Hunter Morgenroth, narrowing the score to 40-38. However, their onside kick attempt went out of bounds, giving Cortland the victory.
Gallo was a key player for the Red Dragons, rushing for 165 yards and scoring three touchdowns. Boyes also contributed with two rushing touchdowns and 182 passing yards. Jayson Zeva caught nine passes for 117 yards. Cortland’s defense was led by Jaden Martinez with 13 tackles, while Nick Lardaro made a crucial forced fumble.
Susquehanna’s Ehrlich threw for 314 yards and four touchdowns, but the loss ended their impressive 23-game regular-season winning streak. Drew Robinson and Garrett Carter also had strong defensive performances for the River Hawks.
The atmosphere at Amos Alonzo Stagg Field was electric, with fans cheering loudly for both teams. Cortland’s victory showed their determination and teamwork, important traits as they look ahead in the season.
Cortland’s own Craig Ackerman praised his team’s grit, saying, “This shows our character. We never give up.” Cortland will take a break before facing Morrisville on October 5 at 1 p.m. in an Empire 8 matchup, aiming to build on this exciting win and keep their strong season going. Fans can look forward to more thrilling football as the Red Dragons continue their journey.
With a strong offense and solid defense, Cortland is poised for more success. Players and coaches alike are focused on improving their game and working together. The fans’ support plays a big role in their motivation, making every game an event to remember.