SAFFORD, Ariz. (AP) — Carlos Arbizo threw a touchdown pass and rushed for another score, leading Safford to a 13-12 comeback victory over Morenci on Friday night, securing a thrilling homecoming win in front of a packed home crowd.
Morenci (2-4) got off to a fast start, as Julian Aragon broke free for a 66-yard touchdown run on the first play from scrimmage, giving the Wildcats a 6-0 lead just 17 seconds into the game. However, Morenci’s extra point was blocked, a missed opportunity that would loom large as the game wore on.
After a scoreless second quarter, Morenci extended its lead in the third when Chris Lopez capped off a drive with a 3-yard touchdown run at 9:03. The Wildcats attempted a two-point conversion, but the try failed, leaving the score at 12-0.
Safford (4-3) responded late in the third quarter. Cole Yentsch sparked the Bulldogs’ offense with a 54-yard run, his only touch of the night, setting up Arbizo’s 1-yard touchdown run with 1:17 remaining in the quarter. The Bulldogs added the extra point, cutting the deficit to 12-7.
The Bulldogs took the lead for good in the fourth quarter when Arbizo connected with Cole Goodman on a 16-yard touchdown pass at the 7:00 mark. Safford’s extra point attempt was blocked, but their defense held firm in the final minutes to secure the win.
Arbizo finished the game 4-of-10 passing for 31 yards, one touchdown, and two interceptions. He also rushed 11 times for 44 yards and a score. Jarret Jurado added 49 yards on eight carries, while Goodman caught two passes for 24 yards and the game-winning touchdown.
For Morenci, Aragon was a standout, rushing for 185 yards and a touchdown on 19 carries. Marcus Lucero chipped in 45 yards on 17 carries.
Morenci finished with 251 yards on the ground and 9 yards through the air, while Safford totaled 191 rushing yards and 31 passing yards.
With the victory, Safford improves to 4-3 on the season, while Morenci falls to 2-4.
Scoring Summary:
1st Quarter
MOR — Julian Aragon 66-yard run (kick blocked), 11:43
3rd Quarter
MOR — Chris Lopez 3-yard run (two-point conversion failed), 9:03
SAF — Carlos Arbizo 1-yard run (Brayden Coy kick), 1:17
4th Quarter
SAF — Cole Goodman 16-yard pass from Carlos Arbizo (kick blocked), 7:00
