Despite offensive struggles all night, Chandler Seton Catholic had its chances to at least tie Friday’s game against visiting Buckeye late in the fourth quarter.
But the Sentinels (1-2) were unable to take advantage of their opportunities and dropped a 27-13 decision in a 4A nonregion game played at Gilbert Mesquite High School.
With the game still in doubt at 20-13, Seton started its last meaningful possession at the Buckeye 36-yard line. On the first play, Buckeye’s Franky Lynch intercepted a Lucas McCarville desperation pass and returned it 85 yards for the game’s final score.
Buckeye (2-1) finished with three interceptions, including another one at its own 5-yard line as it clung to a 20-13 lead.
The Hawks also converted their first interception into the game’s initial touchdown and a 6-3 second quarter lead. Buckeye increased the margin to 13-3 on a 34-yard pass from Troy Ganley to Coleman MacArthur in the third quarter.
Seton, which rushed for only 104 yards on 42 attempts, managed to get a turnover of its own, a fumble recovery, midway through the third quarter. The Sentinels converted it into a 1-yard Jon McDonald touchdown run and a 13-13 tie.
But Buckeye answered that score with an eight-play, 56-yard scoring drive for a 20-13 lead. Ganley capped the drive with a 1-yard run.
