A Game of Momentum Shifts
The Stags returned to Connecticut for the first time in seven years, stepping onto the field in West Haven before a modest but enthusiastic crowd. The atmosphere was charged as both teams looked to set the tone early in what promised to be a competitive season.
New Haven struck first, with Liam Quigley drilling a 38‑yard field goal in the opening quarter. The early points seemed to settle the Chargers, but Marist answered swiftly when Sonny Mannino capped a drives with a five‑yard rush, putting the Stags ahead 7‑3.
The lead changed hands again when Jordan Caldwell snatched an interception and returned it for a touchdown, extending Marist’s advantage to 14‑3. The defensive play sparked excitement among the Stags’ sideline and fans alike.
AJ Duffy then narrowed the gap, connecting with Isaac Glaudin on a 39‑yard strike that made the score 14‑10. The momentum swung back and forth, keeping the contest finely balanced.
In the second half, Marist’s special teams delivered a pivotal moment. Dylan Gilmore blocked a punt, and Zach Garmont recovered the ball for a touchdown, pushing the Stags to a 21‑10 lead and energizing the team.
New Haven refused to fold. Quigley added a 35‑yard field goal, and Duffy later found Nate Burleson II on a 46‑yard touchdown pass, trimming the deficit to a single point and setting the stage for a dramatic finish.
The Chargers ultimately outgained the Stags, amassing 418 yards to Marist’s 160, but the Stags’ defense and special teams contributed heavily throughout. Kade Werner paced the defense with 11 tackles, including nine solo stops and two for loss, while also recording three career games with double‑digit tackles.
Despite the loss, the game highlighted several bright spots: Marist’s ability to score in all three phases — rushing, interception return, and blocked punt — and the emergence of players like Sonny Mannino, who notched his 12th rushing touchdown of the 2024 season. The Stags’ early‑season performance suggests they will be a formidable opponent in the weeks ahead.