September 30, 2024 by Elias Prodger&Kazuki Borchardt(‘26)
The Saratoga Springs High School football team was able to capture an upset 31-28 win over Niskayuna in Friday night’s energy-packed White Out game on Saratoga’s own homefield. The game was built on a swift back and forth with several lead changes throughout the game. In the end, Saratoga was able to prevail.
With the student section packed-full with supportive students, the night started off with Niskayuna electing to receive. Throughout the first quarter, it became apparent both teams would lean heavily on their run game throughout the night. During the middle of the 1st quarter, Niskayuna scored the first touchdown of the game leading to a 7-0 Niskayuna lead at the end of the quarter.
At the top of the second quarter, Toga’s offense picked up and scored a field goal to put them on the board, and the plays were getting more and more aggressive as time ticked down with a blocked punt by Saratoga in the middle of the second, leading to great field position for their next drive. This resulted in an intense touchdown pass to sophomore receiver Gavin LaFrance, tying the game 7-7. Following this, Niskayuna was able to revive themselves immediately with a touchdown off a kickoff return from Niskayuna star Cam Grasso. However, Saratoga’s following drive resulted in a touchdown run from running back Benjaman Correya- launching Saratoga to a 16-14 lead at the half.
Going into the second half, the energy in the student section and on the field picked up, knowing it would be a tight game as Niskayuna was 2 points behind. Niskayuna was able to strike back with a touchdown run from Grasso, his second of the game. Moments later, Toga then swiftly scored a touchdown with a two-point conversion from receiver Caleb Casey making the score 24-21. Unfortunately for the home team, Niskayuna did not let up in the fourth quarter as they scored their 3rd running touchdown with a score of 28-24. However late into the fourth, Saratoga manages to get a pass to tight end Josh Simon, putting the blue streaks ahead and sealing an upset victory over section rivals.
The Blue Streaks will be back next Friday with the final game of their three game homestand against Colonie! Bring even more energy for the next game Toga!