In a tightly contested Friday night matchup at the high school field, the visiting Newcastle Dogies rallied late to defeat the Tongue River Eagles 12-7. The game featured multiple turnovers, big plays on the ground and through the air, and a dramatic fourth‑quarter surge that highlighted the Dogies’ resilience.
First Quarter
The opening period set the tone for a defensive battle. Newcastle safety Ian Rosics made an early impact, intercepting Eagle quarterback Dane Crabtree at the 0:00 mark, giving the Dogies an early chance to establish momentum.
Second Quarter
Newcastle’s offense found its rhythm early in the second quarter. Aiden Smith connected on an 11‑yard pass to Tristan Johnson, moving the ball from the 20‑yard line to the 31‑yard line. Shortly after, running back TJ Watkins broke free for a 14‑yard rush, advancing from the 30‑yard line to the 44‑yard line. The Dogies continued to press, with Smith delivering a 5‑yard pass to Bronson Schwend. A fumble on that play was recovered by Newcastle’s Mason Rawhouser, keeping possession alive.
Third Quarter
The third quarter saw both teams exchange big runs. Landon Hatheway powered a 25‑yard rush for Newcastle, moving the ball from their own 36‑yard line to the Tongue River 39‑yard line. The Eagles responded with a 16‑yard run by Colten Hatheway, cutting the distance to the 23‑yard line. Crabtree then broke free for an 8‑yard touchdown run, putting Tongue River ahead 6‑0. Newcastle answered quickly as Smith threw a 26‑yard pass to Schwend, advancing from the 33‑yard line to the 41‑yard line.
Fourth Quarter
The decisive moments arrived in the final period. At 1:31, Dylan Hespe intercepted a Smith pass, giving the Eagles a chance to extend their lead. However, a miscue on the next play saw Crabtree catch his own deflected pass and be tackled for a loss by Colter Schwend. Smith then found Jacob Riendeau on a 17‑yard pass, followed by a 16‑yard strike to Schwend, moving the ball deep into Eagle territory.
With the game hanging in the balance, Smith delivered a clutch 22‑yard touchdown pass to Hatcher Stutzman on a 4th‑and‑8 situation, narrowing the gap to 7‑6. A defensive highlight came when Warner sacked Crabtree, forcing a punt. The Dogies capitalized on the ensuing drive when Landon Hatheway punched in a 4‑yard touchdown run, giving Newcastle a 12‑7 lead that would hold for the remainder of the game.
Newcastle sealed the win with a final interception by Cayson Phillips, ending any hopes of a late Eagle comeback. The Dogies’ balanced attack—combining timely passing from Smith with effective ground gains by Hatheway—proved decisive, while the Eagles’ early lead was ultimately undone by turnovers.
Key Performers
- Aiden Smith – 4 touchdown passes, multiple key completions.
- Bronson Schwend – reliable target, recovered a fumble, and contributed on special teams.
- Landon Hatheway – 2 rushing touchdowns, including the game‑winner.
- Dylan Hespe – defensive play with a crucial interception.
The victory improves Newcastle’s standing in the district and gives the team confidence heading into the next round of competition. Tongue River will look to regroup and address the turnovers that proved costly.
Original reporting: Sheridan Media (Sheridan WY) — read the source article.
