Northeast Fl- In an intense game that left fans on the edge of their seats, the Creekside Knights pulled off a stunning upset against the previous undefeated Mandarin Mustangs Friday night.
The game got off to an explosive start as Mandarin wasted no time getting on the scoreboard. Tiant Wyche, a force to be reckoned with, sprinted 22-yards for a rushing touchdown. AJ Belgrave added to the damage with a successful 2-point conversion, giving Mandarin an early 8-0 lead. The Mustangs seemed poised to maintain their dominance.
Mandarin, Tiant Wyche, gets them on the board first with a 2 point conversion by #3 AJ Belgrave @DuvalSports pic.twitter.com/lnSMWXduH5
— Asia🤎✨ (@amaye_) September 22, 2023
Tramell Jones, displayed pinpoint accuracy, connecting with Tiant Wyche on a 12-yard pass for his second touchdown, and Drake Stubbs completed the 2-point conversion. The Mustangs were on the hunt up16-0. However, Creekside had other plans as the Knights began to hunt Mustang.
After many penalties on both sides, mustangs score another TD by Tiant Wyche with his 2nd TD of the game already! 16-0 Mustangs @DuvalSports pic.twitter.com/DVY2PpLsJr
— Asia🤎✨ (@amaye_) September 22, 2023
Despite the early setback, they looked to claw their way back into the game. Harrison Garrido scored with extra point being good, 16-7 Mandarin.
After many penalties on both sides, mustangs score another TD by Tiant Wyche with his 2nd TD of the game already! 16-0 Mustangs @DuvalSports pic.twitter.com/DVY2PpLsJr
— Asia🤎✨ (@amaye_) September 22, 2023
The turning point of the game came when Danny Approbato made a spectacular diving interception for the Knights. It was a game-changing moment that shifted the tide in Creekside’s favor.
Danny Approbato with a HUGE interception for Creekide!! @DuvalSports pic.twitter.com/aBvaga2sQO
— Asia🤎✨ (@amaye_) September 22, 2023
The Knights seized the opportunity, and Harrison Garrido scored his second touchdown of the night, bringing the score to a nail-biting 16-14, with Mandarin still in the lead. Garrido’s touchdown injected new life into the Knights, and they weren’t about to let it go to waste.
Harrison Garrido meant business and scored his 2nd TD of the night! 16-14, Mandarin still on top! @DuvalSports pic.twitter.com/74W9707XoD
— Asia🤎✨ (@amaye_) September 22, 2023
Just before halftime, the Knights’ defense delivered another critical blow, recovering a fumble that culminated in a successful field goal. Creekside headed into halftime with a shocking 17-16 lead, leaving the Mustangs searching for answers.
The second half was a showcase of grit and determination from both teams. Ethan Sherman’s touchdown with three minutes left in the third quarter put Mandarin back in the lead, 22-17. The game hung in the balance as both sides fought fiercely for control.
Ethan Sherman puts Mandarin back on top! 22-17 3 mins left in 3rd!! @DuvalSports pic.twitter.com/0JnQ9H1FRK
— Asia🤎✨ (@amaye_) September 23, 2023
With the score at 22-17 in favor of Mandarin, Creekside faced a pivotal moment on a crucial fourth down. The tension in the air was intense as Creekside fans cheered on their team. In a moment of sheer brilliance, Sean Ashenfelder connected with Eros Taufer for the game-winning touchdown.
Creekside #2 Sean Ashenfelder connects with #14 Eros Taufer for one of the biggest plays of the night!! 2 point conversion failed but 23-22 Creekside with 20 secs left in game!! @DuvalSports pic.twitter.com/o7PXzWFPPN
— Asia🤎✨ (@amaye_) September 23, 2023
The Creekside Knights (2-3) had achieved what they said to be impossible, stunning the previously undefeated Mandarin Mustangs (4-1) and handing them their first loss of the season. It was a victory that showcased the heart and determination of the Knights, proving that in the world of sports, anything is possible.
As they savor this thrilling win, the Knights look ahead to their next challenge, as they travel to face the Oakleaf Knights (2-1) next week in another tough matchup. One thing is certain: the Creekside Knights have announced their presence with authority, and their journey is one that fans won’t want to miss.
