University's mistakes prove costly
The Blackhawks' Aiden Maser pressures U-Hi quarterback Aiden Sautter in Friday's GSL game.
Cheney's Camden Collins (7) and Christopher Wilson (14) combine on a defensive play against University.
SPOKANE VALLEY – The University High School Titans fell to the Cheney Blackhawks 30-14 in their Greater Spokane League football matchup on Oct. 25, struggling to capitalize on key plays while turnovers and missed scoring chances hampered their performance. University, now at 1-7, showed flashes of momentum, but Cheney's ability to convert Titan turnovers into points ultimately defined the game.
A bad snap on a University punt in the first quarter set up Cheney's second touchdown, giving the Blackhawks an early 13-0 advantage. "Our defense was out there putting in the work, but we just didn't close on some key plays," head coach John Graham said.
University managed to slow Cheney's initial pace, forcing short possessions and punts, but an interception by Cheney's Andrew Houdonoubough mid-second quarter stalled University's own momentum and led to a series of costly penalties. Cheney ended the half with a 16-0 lead after a 22-yard field goal by Maximillian Riggs.
University's offense found its rhythm in the fourth quarter when senior Paxon Cunanan powered through on a short touchdown run, trimming the Blackhawks' lead to 23-8 following a successful conversion. Cunanan's drive gave a much-needed boost to the Titans, who have faced challenges throughout the season. "We've been building on the positives, and tonight our guys showed some fight in the last quarter," Graham added.
Despite University's late-game efforts, Cheney responded with a game-sealing score after recovering a Titan fumble on the punt return. University answered quickly, with Aiden Sautter connecting with Bobby Jones for a 24-yard touchdown pass, bringing the final score to 30-14.
The Titans' loss marks their first game against Cheney since a 28-14 victory over the Blackhawks in February 2021. University will look to end the season on a high note as they prepare to face Mt. Spokane (4-4) on Nov. 1.
"We're aiming to finish strong," Graham said, as University closes out GSL play and heads into their final games of the season.
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