By GERARD WELLBROCK
Hays Post Sports
HAYS, Kan. - David Arriaga booted four field goals and Michael Polley had a key interception return for a touchdown to help Fort Hays State to a 26-7 win over Nebraska-Kearney in front of 6,726 on Saturday night at Lewis Field.
The Tigers (2-1, 1-0 MIAA) capitalized on a strong defensive effort highlighted by a 78-yard interception return for a touchdown by Michael Polley and built a 26-0 lead before the Lopers (2-1, 0-1 MIAA) scored its touchdown late. FHSU has won seven straight at home over UNK dating back to 2005 and have won 12 of the last 13 vs. the Lopers.
After going 3-and-out on their first two possession, Fort Hays State put together a methodical 11-play, 70-yard drive, culminating in a two-yard rushing touchdown by Travis Dixon to take a 7-0 lead. The Tigers extended its lead to 17-0 by halftime. David Arriaga successfully converted a 42-yard field goal and added an extra point following Michael Polley's 78-yard interception return for a touchdown.
The Tigers extended its lead to 23-0 with two Arriaga field goals from 38 and 34 yards. The first field goal was set up after Parrish Terry forced a fumble on UNK's first drive of the half which was recovered by Jalen Williams. John Johnson and Kayson Dietz each had sacks in the quarter, with Dietz's stop creating a turnover on downs.
Arriaga supplied his final field goal of the night from 27 yards with 4:05 to play. to push the lead to 26-0. The Lopers drove 65 yards for their only score on an eight-yard touchdown run by Jahmez Ross.
The Lopers outgained the Tigers by two yards and each team had a 100-yard rusher. Travis Dixon pounded out 110 yards for the Tigers before leaving in the fourth quarter with an apparent knee injury. Isaiah Harris rushed for 107 for the Lopers. Caleb Heavner completed 17-of-28 passes for 134 yards. Ryan Allen led the Tigers with four receptions for 47 yards.
John Johnson had seven tackles and a sack to lead the Tiger defense. Jalen Williams added six tackles and a fumble recovery.
UP NEXT
Fort Hays State will travel to take on another ranked team next week when it plays at Pittsburg State. The No. 24/16 ranked Gorillas knocked off No. 3/5 ranked Grand Valley State on Saturday in non-conference play. Game time is set for 4 p.m. in Pittsburg on Saturday, September 20.