Niwot Cougar football overpowered by Centaurus Warriors

Niwot High School's football team faced a difficult challenge against 4A program Centaurus High School on Friday, Sept. 6, falling 49-7 under the lights of Everly-Montgomery Field in Longmont. The Centaurus Warriors dominated the game from the first quarter, while Niwot struggled to gain momentum despite key defensive plays and moments of offensive promise. The Cougars were missing some key players due to illness, which made the game even more challenging.

The game started with hope for the Cougars, as senior running back Haden Shaw made an impressive run for a first down early in the first half. Niwot's offense initially showed resilience, but a fumble by sophomore quarterback Jaydan Martinez led to a quick end to the threat.

However, Niwot's fortunes quickly shifted. With 3:28 remaining in the first quarter, the Warriors scored their first touchdown with a strong rushing attack, pushing ahead 7-0. Centaurus continued their offensive dominance with a 40-yard pass, setting up another rushing touchdown early in the second quarter, bringing the score to 14-0.

Niwot's offense faced further challenges, including a fumble recovered by the Warriors. Centaurus quickly capitalized, with their quarterback rushing in for a touchdown to increase the lead to 21-0.

The Cougar's defense made a key play with senior Moises Gonzalez Avina intercepting a pass, temporarily halting Centaurus' offense. However, the Warriors quickly responded with their own interception five seconds later, regaining possession. Wasting no time, Centaurus threw for another touchdown with 7:08 left in the half, widening the Warrior lead to 28-0. They struck again with a 45-yard touchdown pass at 4:33, making it 35-0 before halftime.

The third quarter brought more troubles for the Cougars, as Shaw, one of Niwot's key players, was forced to leave the game with an injury and did not return. However, Niwot had some bright moments. Junior Eli Quesada intercepted a pass, giving the home team a chance to shift momentum.

Martinez stepped in for quarterback Wyatt Volf for the second half, and made his mark with a one-yard rushing touchdown, putting the Cougars on the board at 35-7 with 6:58 left in the third quarter. Despite this effort, the Warriors quickly answered with another touchdown and extra point, pushing their lead to 42-7.

Niwot's defense forced a fumble from the Centaurus quarterback, providing Niwot with another opportunity to score. Niwot had a chance at 1st and goal, but a delay of game penalty brought them back. On 2nd and goal, Martinez threw an interception, ending the drive.

Centaurus added one final touchdown to seal the game, bringing the score to 49-7 after a successful extra point.

The Cougars will look to regroup on Friday, Sept. 13, for their homecoming game against Skyview High School at the Art Stapp Sports Complex at Niwot High School. This will be the third football game Niwot has hosted on their home turf. Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m.