Gannon University football welcomed students, alums, family, and friends for a surprisingly temperate day at McConnell Family Stadium and offered a come-from-behind victory against PSAC opponent Clarion University. Fans overflowed the stadium, and the cheering showed the sheer amount of support for the Golden Knights. This past Saturday’s victory finally took the Golden Knights off a losing streak, now with a 1-3 record this season. The game also proved to be historical with it being the largest comeback win in school history.
The start of the game was bleak, with the Clarion Golden Eagles scoring a 16-yard touchdown just four minutes into the game. Gannon then fumbled the ball early in their possession allowing Clarion to score again, putting them up 17-0 early in the first quarter. Gannon continued to trail 20-0 up until the last five minutes of the second quarter. The Golden Knights forced a fumble at
the Clarion 19, opening the opportunity for Donell “Tank” Mason to complete an 8-yard catch in the endzone, putting points up on the board for Gannon 20-7. Gannon opened the third quarter strong, forcing a three-and-out and taking possession at the 18. “Tank” Mason got the crowd roaring yet again after hauling an impressive 80-yard touchdown pass. Gannon’s defense continued to rally, sacking the Clarion quarterback three times. The Golden Knights were able to drive the ball for 72-yards, and placekicker Eric Scarpino scored a 32-yard field goal, giving the Knights a 20-17 pull.
The highlight of the homecoming game was the pick-6 play made by Kam Snell, a 16-yard pickoff putting the Golden Knights ahead 24-20 as well as marking his first career touchdown. Gannon added another field goal to their score with 2:39 remaining in the game, giving them a winning score of 27-20. This win proved to be the Knight’s fourth straight win over Clarion, as well as their sixth straight homecoming game win.
Gannon Football hits the road for their next game Saturday, September 30 against Seton Hill for their homecoming game.
