The varsity football team defeated the Palo Duro Dons last night in a fourth quarter comeback to win the game in overtime by a final score of 27-21.

On the first play of the game, junior quarterback Blake Weaver threw an interception which led to the Dons first touchdown on a pass play, 0-7.

Senior Jace Vessels began the second quarter with an interception on Canyon’s 14-yard line. After a four and out, the Eagles were forced to punt.

On Palo Duro’s first play after receiving possession, the Dons quarterback ran 65-yards for their second touchdown. After a fumbled snap on the extra point, Palo Duro led Canyon 0-13.

Junior Drew Mannon intercepted on the Canyon 25-yard line with a minute left in the second quarter. Palo Duro answered back with an interception on their 27-yard line to end the first half.

 Senior Graeson Cook opened the second half with two receptions for 78-yards and a touchdown to put Canyon on the score board, 7-13.

The Eagles took the lead with a 2-yard run by Steven Hansen, 14-13.

Palo Duro took the lead again with a 35-yard touchdown pass and a two point conversion, 14-21.

Canyon blocked a field goal attempt by the Dons with 1:44 left in the game. With only 22 seconds left in regulation, Cook scored a 15-yard touchdown to force the game into overtime tied at 21-21.

The Eagles defeated the Dons after an 11-yard touchdown pass to sophomore Isaac Garland to end overtime.

“Last night the defense played really well,” Garland said. “The offense struggled in the first half but we came to play in the second half to pull out the win. I was nervous before the last play, but I just trusted Blake to put it in my hands.”

Canyon will play Frenship in the bi-district playoff game next Friday night at Kimbrough Memorial Stadium. Check back to The Eagle’s Tale for a kickoff time.

“We’re going to have a good week of practice, watch a lot of film, and I’m sure the coaches will have a good game plan for Frenship,” Garland said.