Football Recap: Chris Fernandez's Big Game Can't Quite Lead Ainsworth over Sandhills/Thedford

Ainsworth lost against Sandhills/Thedford back in September of 2024, and unfortunately they wound up with the same result on Thursday. The Bulldogs fell 33-24 to the Knights. While the Bulldogs had to settle for second, they closed the game well in the third quarter, where they outscored the Knights 12-7.

Ainsworth's defeat came despite a true team effort from the offense with many players turning in solid performances. Perhaps the best among them was Chris Fernandez, who threw for 253 yards and a pair of TDs, and also rushed for 54 yards. Jacob Ortner was Fernandez's top target, picking up 78 receiving yards and one score.

Maurice Robinson was nothing short of spectacular for Sandhills/Thedford: he rushed for 124 yards and a pair of touchdowns on only 11 carries, and also picked up 73 receiving yards and one TD. That's the most receiving yards Robinson has posted since back in September of 2024.

Ainsworth's loss dropped their record down to 0-2. As for Sandhills/Thedford, the win got them back to even at 1-1.

Both teams are looking forward to the support of their home crowds in their upcoming games. Ainsworth will welcome West Holt at 7:00 p.m. on the 12th. As for Sandhills/Thedford, they will look to defend their home field on Thursday against Burwell at 7:00 p.m.