On Aug. 31, the Winslow Bulldogs traveled to Payson to meet the Longhorns, the only 3A East team they will face this season. It was Payson’s homecoming and the very physical and bigger Longhorns were coming off a big win against the Safford Bulldogs.
Late in the first quarter the Longhorns would score for the first time on a 3-yard run by Marco Gureque followed by a 2-point conversion to get the lead.
Mid-way through the second quarter Longhorn Wyatt Burdette would score on a 20-yard pass from Carter Keaton followed by 2-point conversion. In the final seconds of the half, Mason Herrora would score running 100 yards after intercepting an end-zone pass. The point after was good, making the halftime score Payson 23, Winslow 0.
Late in the third quarter Longhorn Keaton Potter would score on a 42-yard run. In the fourth quarter Payson would score twice, first on a 20-yard run by Johnny McAnereny. A 20-yard run by Herrora followed, making the final score Payson 42, Winslow 0.
The Bulldogs did have some bright points. They caused several Payson turnovers and were close to scoring several times just couldn’t quite penetrate Payson’s nearly flawless defense. However, Winslow’s pass protection kept Winslow quarterback Gino Quionones from ever being sacked. Along with receivers Joseph Guerrero-Rodriquez and Jo Jo Captain having several great catches.
Winslow had 141 yards passing 6 of 23 with 2 interceptions, 60 yards rushing for a total of 191 yards.
At 7 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 6, the Winslow Bulldogs will host the Holbrook Roadrunners at Nasser Stadium.
