Goffstown football beat heavily favored Winnacunnet in a late-game shootout on Friday, Oct. 26. The 24-20 final keeps the locals in contention for the playoffs.
“Last year we played Winnacunnet and got knocked around,” said Goffstown head coach Rob Cathcart. “This year was a different story.”
Tom Foote’s 1-yard leap into the end zone capped the Grizzlies’ comeback from a 10-point deficit, and Casey Cottle’s fumble recovery stamped out Winnacunnet’s last-gasp drive.
Both teams turned in strong first-half defensive efforts. Foote blocked the host’s extra-point attempt, keeping the score 6-0. Goffstown settled for a 26-yard field goal by Steve Case to cut the lead in half at intermission.
Winnacunnet opened the third quarter with a quick touchdown and point after to raise the lead to 13-3.
But Jeremy Dicostanzo immediately returned the kickoff 56 yards, putting Goffstown in position for a Ryan Allen touchdown.
Goffstown’s failed on-side kick attempt became another Warriors’ touchdown and 20-10 lead.
Again, the Grizzlies answered, following its veteran offensive line to pay dirt.
Kiah Colbert capped an 88-yard drive that began late in the third quarter and ended in the fourth, pulling GHS within 20-17.
“This is all about hard work paying off,” said Cathcart. “Division II is a lot different than Division III. In D-II you have to be strong and lift. Being in the weight room since January won this game. We were bigger and stronger than they were.”
Down three points, the Grizzlies’ defense forced a punt. One final time, Goffstown steamrolled down the field mixing off-tackle and up-the-middle runs to set up Foote’s game-winning score.
With barely a minute left Winnacunnet’s senior captain and quarterback, Ryan Cronan, ran 36 yards in two plays, threatening Goffstown’s lead. But Cottle dove into the pile to recover a poor snap and ensure the win.
Only Timberlane remains between Goffstown and the postseason. The locals enjoy home-field advantage this Saturday, Nov. 3, at 1:30 p.m.
– Submitted by Gregor R-Baugh