Football Recap: Apache Junction Comes Up Short

Apache Junction extended their losing streak (dating back to last season) to ten on Friday, dropping them down to 0-4. They were outmatched by the Payson Longhorns and fell 57-6. The Prospectors were in a tough position after the first half, with the score already sitting at 43-6.

Even if they lost, Apache Junction's defensive line still kept up the pressure with three sacks. The team can thank three different players for their defensive prowess: Don Brigham, Lucah Pape, and Alex Jaskowiak, who each picked up one sack apiece.

As for Payson, the win keeps them at an undefeated 4-0. Fans of they have seen this all before: every one of the games they've played this season has ended in a blowout of 20+ points.

Payson got their victory on the backs of several key players, but it was Nolan Keeney out in front who threw for 205 yards and four TDs while completing 72.7% of his passes. That's the most passing touchdowns Keeney has posted since back in September of 2024. Payson's leading receiver Marco Guereque was Keeney's top target yet again, picking up 84 receiving yards and a pair of touchdowns.

Apache Junction didn't take long to hit the field again: they've already played their next matchup, a 34-6 defeat against ALA - Ironwood on the 19th. As for Payson, they also wasted no time getting back out on the field and have already played their next game, a 62-0 win against ALA - Mesa North on the 19th.