LA PLUME, PA- The Keystone College football team battled throughout all four quarters on Saturday afternoon, ultimately falling to Cairn University, 31-6, in United East Conference action.
After a scoreless opening quarter for the Giants, Cairn found the end zone late in the first to take an early 6-0 lead. Keystone's defense continued to compete in the second quarter, but Cairn added another touchdown to carry a 12-0 advantage into halftime.
The Giants showed resilience on both sides of the ball, putting together multiple extended drives and controlling the time of possession for much of the game. Keystone finished with nine first downs and held the ball for over 48 minutes, highlighting a strong effort in sustaining offensive opportunities.
Cairn added to its lead in the third quarter, but Keystone continued to fight, keeping pressure on defensively and forcing key plays. The Giants came away with a pair of interceptions on the day, showcasing their ability to create turnovers.
In the fourth quarter, Keystone broke through with a highlight play as Jayda Price (York, Pa./William Penn) stepped in front of a pass and returned it 66 yards for a touchdown, putting the Giants on the board and energizing the sideline.
Desiree Stamps (Alpharetta, Ga./Centennial) led the Keystone offense, completing 18 passes for 107 yards while also contributing on the ground. Jayda Price (York, Pa./William Penn) was her top target with six receptions for 43 yards, while Hailee Hackett (Carmicahel, Calif./Rio Americano) added 18 rushing yards and chipped in through the air. Defensively, Malina Alexander (Hazleton, Pa./Hazleton Area) paced the Giants with six tackles, while the unit added two sacks and multiple impact plays throughout the contest.
Keystone aims to regroup as the team heads on the road for a non-conference tri-meet against Manor College and Penn State Schuylkill on Tuesday, April 14. The Giants return home on April 16 to take on Montclair State University in their final home game of the season, before wrapping up the regular season against Cedar Crest College and Gallaudet University on April 18.
